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Check to see what a snow resort near your home, or one you want to visit -- will be offering this January. Consider that at some resorts, including Keystone, Steamboat and even Aspen/Snowmass in Colorado, kids may be able to ski or ride free, which can save you hundreds of dollars. Discounts on lessons and rentals are also a bonus. If your family are all newbies -- maybe you want to share a new adventure with a college-aged son or daughter off this month -- the historic Limelight Hotel in downtown Aspen (one of my faves) includes three full days of adult beginner lessons and for nights at the hotel including rentals, lessons lodging, breakfast and lunch (starting at under $1,800 per person). You'll be escorted to the slopes each morning and you can even rent the rest of your gear if you don't want to invest. Talk about your exploits during Happy Hour while listening to favorite local bands.

Here's a sampling of what other January deals are out there:

Alpine Meadows, Calif., has a $59 first-time skiers and riders (13 and over) beginner package on weekdays that includes lift ticket, lesson and rentals.

Copper Mountain, Colo., Ski and Ride School University has got a $199 package (16 and over) that includes three ski or snowboard lessons; lift tickets; equipment rentals; close-in parking; and even lunch on the second and third day. Upon graduation and completion of the third lesson, Copper provides participants with a free season pass. Quantities are limited!

Mt. Brighton , Mich., includes a Discover Michigan beginner ski or snowboard lesson, rental equipment and a beginner-area lift ticket all for just $35.

Steamboat, Colo., has a Learn to Ski/Ride Package with two days of lessons, rentals and lift tickets for just $199 from Jan. 4 to Jan. 31 for adults and for kids from first grade onward.

Who says only kids can have fun in the snow? See you on the mountain!

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(For more on fun in the snow, check out www.takingthekids.com Follow @takingthekids on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram. And if you are heading to Colorado Ski Country, pack Eileen's Kid's Guide to Denver and Colorado Ski Country with lots of tips from local kids.)

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