Thanks to all your responses and suggestions! I went ahead and bought my son a pair of used ski boots (which I've got him used to wearing around the house), as well as a pair of snowblades (as suggested by a couple ski instructors I know) because they're lighter and more maneuverable. My goal is for him to have fun on the snow, whether or not he's on a board-I'm sure that will come in due time, since my wife also snowboards and he'll get the exposure...in the meantime, I'll have to keep my eyes out for smaller sized carving equipment!:) :)