During the winter, if the kids are only skiing for half a day, then there are plenty of other activities available in Verbier to keep them happy.
On the snow
If you want to stay on the slopes there are three areas which have 'jardins des neiges' (snow gardens) for toddlers and above. The first is located at Lake Tracouet, above Nendaz. Here you will find a snow tubing track (which is amazing fun), sledging, a snow carousel and baby ski lifts - all for free (although you will need a pedestrian lift pass to access the gondola). Another jardins des neige is located at Les Moulins in Verbier, but this is for clients of the Swiss Ski School, and the final one is at La Tzoumaz. This play area is situated at the bottom of the lift and has its own mascot, 'Snowli', who can help entertain your little ones. Take a look at the piste maps to help you find your way around. Or for something a bit more gentle, you can always go for winter walks through the woods - try the forested trails through Etablons in La Tzoumaz or Perins to Les Planards in Verbier. Or visit the ice sculptures on the way from Les Ruinettes to La Chaux.
Sledging
Sledging is not allowed on the piste, but if you head back down to the villages you will find dedicated sledging at most of the lower nursery slopes. You can also try snow tubing at the bottom of the lift in Nendaz. Most ski shops in town sell sledges (or your accommodation provider may have some you can borrow). In addition, by the Savoleyres sector there is a dedicated winter luge track that runs for 848m. Sledges are available from the top of the Savoleyres gondola and it's suitable for children aged seven years and upwards.
Ice skating
Ice skating is available in Verbier at the sports centre (indoor, from age six, skate hire available) and in La Tzoumaz (free, outdoor, open all day and evenings, skate hire available at Monnet Sports). Other activities you may like to consider for your children include snowman building, snowball fun, and if you want a real treat, try husky dog sledding where the little ones can ride in a passenger sledge with you - there is usually only one passenger sled per trip, so booking in advance is highly recommended to avoid disappointment.
Indoors
There are swimming pools at Verbier sports centre and also at La Tzoumaz sports centre. This second pool also offers 'Roll Ball' where you climb inside a large inflatable ball and roll over the water (for children aged eight and over). The indoor climbing wall at Verbier sports centre is open throughout the year. The cinema in the centre of Verbier regularly shows English language films (look for the VOST showings).
Non-skiers
For adults that aren't quite so sure of the skiing, there are a number of spas you can visit for some indulgence, as well as fitness classes, or perhaps some snowshoeing. Pedestrian ski passes are available at a reduced rate so you can join the rest of your group up in the high mountains for lunch and spectacular views.
Entertainments
During the school holidays there will be plenty of child friendly events to explore. At Christmas, there are markets in Verbier open every day, and parades, shows and Santa. Look out for torchlit descents throughout the winter season (wrap up warm!). Plenty more child friendly events are added to our events calendar as the ski season approaches, so please do check it when you arrive.
Summer
Summer holidays in Verbier are all about being active and there are a wealth of activities on offer here for all ages and members of the family. Our dedicated Guide to Summer Activities in Verbier includes a section specifically on kids activities with information on horse riding, short family hikes, high ropes courses, where to go swimming, nature parks, and numerous other fun things that will help make your family holiday as unique and memorable as possible!