Since 2008, the Children’s Specialist (CS) assessment-based certificate program has been an integral part of Snowsports instructor education across all eight PSIA/AASI divisions. The PSIA/AASI National Children’s Task Force (NCTF) continues its work on the program, making sure that the National Standards remain relevant in today’s ever-changing Snowsports environment.
Certificates are offered at two levels, corresponding to the first two levels of certifications offered in other disciplines. More information on each level is available below.
CS 1
We are in the process of updating this page, as another resource option, check the Children’s Specialist page on national website.
The Children’s Specialist 1 (CS1) is a 2-day interactive certification event. This event is assessment-based. Successful candidates will demonstrate introductory understanding of the National Children’s Specialist concepts, and the ability to teach groups of children of varying ages through the intermediate level. This assessment is not discipline specific. Instructors are encouraged to take the CS1 course once they’ve achieved a Level 1 PSIA-AASI certification in any discipline.
The CS 1 course is for instructors embarking on the journey toward mastery of the art of children’s snowsport instruction.
Evaluations of those taking the CS 1 course reflect the participants’ knowledge of teaching children and individuals. Successful completion of the course grants professional recognition to the instructor and industry for their education, experience, and expertise in teaching children snowsports.
Assessment Criteria:
- Current PSIA/AASI member in good standing
- Current PSIA/AASI Level 1 (or higher) and ability to ski/ride at that level
- Review and be familiar with the CS 1 Reference Materials; they will help you with the CS 1 “Knowledge Review” E-Learning Course and the two-day assessment.
- Successfully complete CS 1 “Knowledge Review” E-Learning Course, and bring certificate to course for verification.
- Must be an active participation in two-day on-snow event.
- This assessment is scored using the CS 1 Assessment Form.
- Must receive a passing score from children’s divisional education staff based on the participant’s demonstrated knowledge, understanding, teaching, and movement analysis.
Assessment Recommendations:
- Complete 50 hours of on-snow teaching children
- Be familiar with CS Performance Guide
- Understand CS 1 Assessment Form.
- Prepare for creative on-snow teach segments that demonstrate an understanding of children’s stages of development (cognitive, physical, and affective).
CS 2
NOTE: You must have a Children’s Specialist 1 credential and a Level 2 certification in any other discipline in order to take the CS 2 course.
Children’s Specialist 2 will continue building on the instructor’s knowledge and skills from the Children’s Specialist 1. The course focuses on the specifics of child development for young learners as they progress through the Beginner/Novice to Advanced Zones.
Participants will integrate their technical understanding of the CAP model with movement analysis and teaching activities for children in the Intermediate and Advanced Zones.
Evaluations of those taking the CS 2 course reflect the participants’ knowledge of teaching children and teens. Successful completion of the course grants professional recognition to the instructor and industry for their education, experience, and expertise in teaching children snowsports. This is a multi-disciplinary course.
Assessment Criteria
- Current PSIA-AASI member in good standing
- Current PSIA-AASI Level 2 (or higher)
- Shall have successfully completed the CS1 Assessment, or have CS1 exemption approval
- Must complete CS 2 Quiz prior to signing up for the event. Must have a passing score.
- Must complete and submit the CS 2 Workbook to clinician 2 weeks prior to event.
- Active participation in two-day on-snow event
This assessment is scored using the CS 2 Assessment Form
Assessment Recommendations
- Comprehensive understanding of the CS Performance Guide is required to successfully complete the CS 2 Workbook
- Understand the CS 2 Assessment Form
- Prepare for creative on-snow teach segments that demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of children’s stages of development (cognitive, affective, physical). At the CS2 level, candidates must identify differences between children in groups, and adjust on-snow presentations to address the needs of various children.
