Jackrabbits

Learn to Ski(Ages 5-9)
Written By Alana Hennessy

ABOUT

The Jackrabbit program is a great way for children to learn and develop all the skills necessary to enjoy the sport of cross-country skiing. 

Chelsea Nordiq offers an 8-week program for Jackrabbit levels 1, 2 and 3. Our focus is on providing a positive learning environment that is both fun and rewarding. We engage ‘junior coaches’ to enthusiastically guide the skiers through their lessons, but also ask that a ‘parent coach’ helps out with each group.

A big highlight is the end of season Jamboree – fun activities, hot chocolate and maple taffy make for a winning recipe.

FAQ

  • Choose Jackrabbit level 1 if your child has completed Bunny Rabbits, or if your child is new to skiing.

    Choose Jackrabbit level 2 if your child has completed Jackrabbit level 1.

    Choose Jackrabbit level 3 if your child has completed Jackrabbit level 2.

    See our Program Guide for further information.

  • The lessons start Sunday January 12, 2024. There are eight Sunday afternoon sessions, including the Jamboree.

    Session times:

    Jackrabbit level 1
    Choose 1:00-2:00pm or 2:45-3:45pm

    Jackrabbit level 2
    Choose 1:00-2:15pm or 2:45-4:00pm

    Jackrabbit level 3
    Choose 1:00-2:30pm or 2:45-4:15pm

  • Most of the lessons take place at Relais Plein Air, which features an indoor space with a café. For two of the sessions we use a groomed area by the CLSC building in Chelsea, and also take the children for a ski along the former railway corridor.

  • Most groups should have a ‘youth coach’, as well as a ‘parent coach’. The Youth Coach, when available, will lead the group. However, a parent is required for safety and to lead the group when the Youth Coach is not available (e.g. they are at a race or other ski event). Training sessions will be offered to parents who help lead a group.

  • We need one parent coach per group, to assist the Youth Coach, and take the lead if the Youth Coach is absent. We also welcome assistant parent coaches.

  • JR1: Classic skis (skins or scales recommended) and ski boots that fit the skis. No poles. Skis should be about the same length as the height of the child.

    JR2: Classic skis (skins or scales recommended), ski boots that fit the skis, and poles. Skis should be about the same length, or slightly longer than the height of the child. Poles should be up to the armpit, with boots on.

    JR3: Classic skis, skate skis*, boots and poles. Classic skis should be about a hand length taller than the child. Skate skis about the same height as the child. One pair of boots (combi recommended). One or two sets of poles. Classic poles up to armpit with boots on. Skate poles up to the mouth with boots on.

    *Note: your child can use waxable classic skis for skate skiing by removing the wax. It’s very difficult to skate ski using classic skis with ‘skins’ or ‘scales’ and therefore is not recommended.

  • The cost for the 8-week program of lessons for winter 2025 is $160.

REGISTRATION

Registration is open. For further information please email generalmanager@chelseanordiq.ca

Alana Hennessy

Alana Hennessy { Freelance Graphic & Web Designer }

http://www.alanahennessy.com
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Bunny Rabbits
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Youth Program