FAQs
On this page you should be able to find answers to most of your Learn to Skate or Intro to Hockey Questions. Please reach out to the skating director with any additional questions or concerns surrounding these programs.
What level should I sign my child up for?
If your child has little to no experience on the ice you would register them for the first level-either Snowplow 1 (3-5) or Basic 1 (6+) depending on their age. Even if they are able to skate without assistance, that would be the appropriate level so they don’t miss any fundamentals. They can always be moved up during a session.
Can I sign up in person on the first day of class?
No. All registrations must be submitted in advance. The classes are scheduled and coaches are assigned depending on the number of kids registered. Each class is capped at a specific number of skaters-please reserve your child’s place in class as soon as possible to guarantee their spot.
What happens if we miss a class?
We understand that things pop up that may interrupt your regular schedule. We allow each family to make up one class per session* by attending their level on a different day that it is offered. All make up classes must be approved by the skating director in advance to be sure there is the appropriate level running. They are not guaranteed but we will accommodate when possible.
*when class sizes allow
Can a Receive a refund if my child doesn’t take to it?
We do not offer refunds but would be happy to issue a credit for any unused classes. That credit can be used anywhere within the building or for a future session of group lessons.
What level does my child have to be for Intro to Hockey?
To sign up for Intro 1 a child should be a proficient skater with the ability to stop (the equivalent of Basic 2). For Intro 2 a child should have those skills plus proficient backward skating.
When can my child come practice what they learn in class?
Registration for our Learn to Skate and Intro to Hockey classes include free admission to the public session on the day of your child’s class. We encourage that time to be used for review and advancement of the skills learned in class.
What Kind of skates should I get if I am buying?
Our pro shop sells skates appropriate for all recreational levels. If you are purchasing skates for your child there are a few things to keep in mind:
The boot around the ankle should be quite stiff. A skate that you can bend at the ankle is not going to offer enough support no matter the child’s size.
The skate itself should be snug on the foot. A skate that is too large will be very difficult to balance in. If you are unsure of size remove the insole and have your child stand on it. There should be no more than half an inch of space in front of their toes at the end of the insole.
Please, please do not grind the toe picks off of a figure skate (yes, we’ve seen it all!). That creates an unbalanced skate that will be impossible to skate in. You will also not be able to trade this skate in at a shop when your child outgrows them.
The one type of skate to steer clear of is a size adjustable skate. The blade on a skate should match the size of a boot closely. A size adjustable skate has a blade that would fit the largest size the skate expands to, thus creating an unbalanced (and dangerous) skate at the smaller sizes as the blade will jut out in the front.