I came to Frost Valley with my 10 year old daughter, who wanted to try cross country skiing. I was very hesitant, as she has several developmental disabilities that make it hard for her to use her body like other ten-year-olds. I was worried that, combined with the deep new snow, we would create a defeating situation when she was left behind by the other girls. After nearly an hour of struggling, the other fathers and daughters were out of sight and though we had made some progress, she had pretty much given up. Enter Jennie, Frost Valley’s ski director. Insisting that she just needed to “warm up,” she did some stretches with my daughter and convinced her to make a snow angel. She helped her get back in her skis and talked to her about what might work best. I could see my daughter’s whole body and face change. Moving her arms and legs together was just too much for her, but taking away the poles and offering the balance and support of a hand allowed her to ski properly. She was gaining more control over her balance and fell down rarely along the trail. All I could do was watch in wonder as the distance between us and the end of the trail grew smaller and smaller. The look of pride and happiness on my daughter’s face was priceless. Jennie told me she could tell my daughter has some special needs, but that they should never keep her from wanting to learn new things. I will cherish our time at your camp.
-Y Guide father
