As the frost of winter begins to thaw, the Northbrook Park District's Skating School opens its doors to enroll eager young skaters. In the heart of the Northbrook Sports Center, an ice rink becomes a focal point for youth development, not only in the arena of athletics but in the personal growth of Chicagoland's children. As Ice Skating Supervisor Ania Lopez puts it, the classes offer a "positive and encouraging environment for children of all ages," aiming to introduce them to the joys of figure skating, hockey, or speed skating, as reported by the Chicago Tribune.
A carefully tiered program segments the learning process, starting with the "Snowplow Sam" introductory level for the littlest learners, aged 4 through 6. Progressing through "Basic Skills" levels 1-6, children from ages 7 through 12 are taught fundamental skills that lay the groundwork for more advanced maneuvers, according to the Daily Herald.
The journey through the ice does not end at the basics; those who reach the tail end of the "Basic Skills" have the opportunity to dive into "Free Skate." It's here they polish notches on their blades with steps toward more elegant transitions, spins, and jumps. One parent, Nikki Goldman, has embraced the program for her children, noting that, "Even though they’re not all in the same level, most are still in classes at the same time, and all are in Low Power together," she told the Daily Herald.
For those interested in enrolling their children in a space where winter sports and personal growth glide hand in hand, visit nbparks.org/programs/ice-skating/skating-school or give a ring at (847) 291-2993, as the Chicago Tribune noted.
