8 Pro Tips for Teaching Kids to Ice Skate
Going for a spin at a local ice rink is a quintessential winter activity. And during the holiday season, you can choose from not just one of the classic indoor skating rinks around the region but also festive seasonal rinks in Bellevue, Olympia and Everett. Cue the steaming mugs of hot cocoa.
There’s only one problem: Ice skating isn’t the easiest sport to pick up. At any local public skate session, you’ll see kids big and small hanging on to their parents for dear life — while the parents are wondering how soon they can schedule a trip to the chiropractor.
So what’s your strategy for helping kids learn to ice skate without breaking your back? We asked local experts and here are their tips.
Dress for success
Success on the ice starts before you leave the house. Make sure kids are wearing tall, lightweight socks, and layers of lightweight, warm clothes. But don’t layer the socks. “Parents think that two pairs of thick socks are helpful but it cuts off circulation,” said Patti Brinkley, director of the Learn to Skate Academy at Lynnwood Ice Center.
Also: Don’t wear jeans because they restrict movement. Choices like sweatpants or leggings are better. Read More..