How to Teach Kids to Ice Skate
Skating is a great way to exercise and have fun at the same time. The sport of skating does take time to master, but once your child does, they'll likely enjoy it. Teaching kids to skate is a gradual process, and best done when the child shows some interest in learning. Your child’s legs will become stronger in time and learn balance on the ice.
- Have your child try the skates on in the house with skate guards on the ice skates. You want to be sure and get a good fit, leaving some room for a couple of pairs of socks. Tie your child’s skate snugly, especially around the ankle. Have your child stand up to get the feeling of the ice skates.
- Your child needs to learn how to fall while trying to avoid injury. This is best taught by having them fall to the side with arms gathered in toward the body, as opposed to being outstretched. If they are outstretched, there is the possibility of a broken hand, wrist and/or arm. They should also learn to put the head down with the chin pointed in towards the chest.
- Time to go on the ice! Let your child use a chair or an ice walker, if needed. This will keep them upright while getting accustomed to the ice. Show how to glide with two feet. Once comfortable with this, try moving away from the chair or ice walker and skating while holding hands. Teach your child it is important to keep the back straight and chin up.
- Encourage your child to slowly let go of your hand and skate alone. The more time on the ice, the more confident they will become.
- Teach your child how to stop when skating. This is best done with the T-stop, which is one skate in the forward position while the other skate turns in 45 degrees, forming a “T” shape. While dragging the back skate, teach them to lean slightly back.