How to improve holidays with children

I bring exciting news: the ski season is already well under way. I've just seen a special offer for a week's snowboarding in France – departing in August.

Yes, this time next week, you and your brood could be pounding the powder in Les Deux Alpes, which offers glacier skiing all year round. Check out Peak Retreats (0870 770 0408; peak retreats.co.uk) for family holidays and late deals.

But if skiing doesn't appeal, there are plenty of other ways to risk life and limb in the Alps. This year, there's an interesting "family friendly" sport on offer for the first time in Méribel. Canyoning is for daredevils only, as it entails clambering, sliding or jumping your way down a mountainous river. For information, contact the Méribel Tourist Office (00 33 4 79 08 60 01; meribel.net). Decent accommodation in the area includes the Hotel Mérilys (00 33 4 79 08 69 00; merilys.com).

There's a brand new offering from Summer Morzine (01932 837639; summermorzine.com). Its tailor-made Multi Activity holiday can include everything from water skiing to to ice skating. Kids under 12 stay free in the new Chalet Flo.