Ice skating is a skill that can be used for a lifetime. It is also a great family activity! We take our fourth graders to a nearby ice skating arena for a morning of instruction and practice. Our Home and School Association (H.S.A.) graciously funds the ice time and skate rentals. The district picks up the cost of the busing and the substitute teachers to cover our classes. We have a parent who is a figure skating instructor who volunteers her time to give our fourth graders group and individual instruction. Each fourth grade teacher and his or her parent volunteers (at least two) comes along to help chaperone and tie skates.

A letter is sent home one week prior to the field trip regarding the following information:

• Date of the trip.
• Agenda of the morning.
• Equipment the students need to bring .
  • Skates if they have them.
    • Pack them in a backpack for safe transport to school.
  • Helmet.
  • Lunch.
• Proper clothing.
  • Sweatshirt, of jacket.
  • Pants that are tight fitting at the ankles so skates don't catch on the pants.
    • Nylon pants are good, because snow and ice just falls off of them!
  • Gloves.
• Directions to the arena for other interested parents.

At the arena, we have the students evaluate themselves into one of three categories:

• Never have skated before.
• Can skate forwards.
• Can skate backwards.

Our instructor then begins instruction with the first group, so they can get started. The other groups are practicing in designated areas. The ice is divides into three areas. There are certain adults that only help students in the first group.

The instructor rotates the teaching accordingly. At any time, the kids may take a break for lunch; or for a snack that is provided for them by our H.S.A.

During "group skate," our instructor is available for any students that are interested. At the end of our ice time, we pack up, clean up, thank all of the appropriate people and head back to school.

The students have a terrific time and the trip proves to be a huge success. This is very evident when a child that has never skated before, leaves the ice with the ability to skate; and want to go again! Feel free to contact me if you have any questions