Getting ready for a ski lesson with Ascendigo.

Who it's for, in Ascendigo's words

“we offer person-centered and individually tailored instruction in skiing and snowboarding for individuals who have autism or other cognitive differences. Lessons range from beginner to advanced ski abilities.”

Coaches are “trained in autism support strategies using evidence-based methods from the Applied Behavioral Analysis (ABA), developmental, and coaching worlds.”

• Ascendigo offers social stories, a parent handbook, a registration guide and a seizure policy for parents. Ask for them when you email.
• Ascendigo describes its coaching as drawing on ABA and other methods. If your family has questions about how that looks on the snow, ask them before you book.

In their own words: ascendigo.org. Checked Sun, Oct 25, 2026. Something wrong or out of date? Tell us · How we check

Three things to know

1. Private lessons for ages 5 and up, at Snowmass and Buttermilk, with ski pros who “specialize in adaptive instruction.” Email malam@ascendigo.org.
2. Ski buddies (ages 5+) don't teach; they support “behavior management, mountain navigation, and activities of daily living (ADL)” in a group lesson or 1:1 for advanced skiers. Full day $225, half day $165.
3. Ascendigo's programs are for “athletes anywhere on the spectrum, ages 7 and up,” and its ski lessons and buddies start at age 5. Ask which applies to your kid.