What time are classes held this session? Why do class times vary from session to session?
Due to the large number of groups and classes, the time of classes can change slightly from session to session. Please refer to the registration information for each session for exact times of classes. The class schedule, which includes practice times, is always available on the Learn to Skate page of our website.
How do I find my class each week?
Each week of class, please check in at the registration table when you enter the rink and pick-up your or your skater’s nametag. On week 1, you will receive an explanation of how to find your class at this time, when your instructor will be holding up a colored sign that will match your skater's nametag. Each week you will then meet your instructor in the lobby and they will escort you or your skater onto the ice for class. There will be staff located in the lobby helping direct you as well. Please return your nametag to the registration table before you leave each week.
I/My child has been skating for a long time, although we have never taken a class. Can we skip the first level?
We still ask that you sign up for the first level for their age group (see answer above). If you/your child has some skating experience and can easily perform all of the required skills, the instructors will work with you/them to find a more appropriate level for you/them once classes have begun. Please note that parents can be on-ice (while wearing skates) with the Parent Tot class ONLY.
My child has never taken ice skating classes before. What level should I sign him/her up for?
If you or your child has never taken lessons before, please register for either Snowplow Sam 1 or Parent-Tot (ages 3-5), Basic 1 (age 6-12), Teen (age 13-17) or Adult (age 18+), depending on the age of the person taking the class.
We are currently taking classes but registration ends before the session is complete so I don’t know if I or my child will pass to the next level. What level should I register for?
We ask that you register AFTER your skater has been tested in week 5 of the program. Your instructor will inform you on test week (week 5) what the next recommended level is. You will receive an evaluation form from your instructor and will be able to go home that day and register online.
What is the refund or credit policy?
Our program does not provide refunds for any reason. Credits are given through week 3 of the program. Credits will only be issued for those classes not attended. All other circumstances will be given a review at management’s discretion. If a refund is granted a portion will be retained as a registration fee. In the event that a class session must be suspended/cancelled for any reason, a credit will be issued for any class that was not able to be held. No refunds will be given for any reason.
Are there any discounts?
We do not currently offer discounts for class registrations.
What is included in the class fee?
The fee you pay for class includes one 30-minute lesson once per week for the duration of the session, and 20-minutes of optional practice time per week. Additionally, your first session of the season, which runs from July 1st – June 30th, will include a $17.25 fee for your or your skater’s Learn to Skate USA Membership.
I have a problem with my account that I created online. What do I do now?
Please call us at 517-336-4272 with problem details so that we can assist you.
Are helmets required?
We STRONGLY recommend wearing a helmet, but we do not require wearing one. A winter sports helmet (i.e. a helmet for sledding, snowboarding, skiing, etc.) is the best option because they protect more of the back of the head than a bike helmet. These helmets are available at most sporting goods stores. If you do not have access to a winter sports helmet, the next best option is a bike helmet that fits the head correctly without slipping forward or back. Unfortunately, if you forget to bring a helmet, the East Lansing Ice Cube is NOT able to lend you one due to insurance liabilities.
What type of skates should my new skater use?
Typically, we find that beginning very young skaters in figure skates is easier for them. The blade on a figure skate has less curvature than a hockey blade and balance is easier to attain for a little one who isn’t quite steady on their feet. Having said that, every child is different and some will find the process equally fun and can progress just fine using a hockey skate when they’re starting their skating journey. The most important part as a parent is to be open-minded about any advice you may receive from your instructor or the Skating Director about what might work best for your child. If your child is excited to skate and you want to foster that excitement, make it your priority that they learn to love it. Wearing a figure skate when they are 3 will not prevent a skater from going to the NHL, just as wearing a hockey skate will not prevent them from learning a double axel down the line. Help them enjoy the process by finding what works!
What should I/my child wear to ice skating class?
For everyone, we recommend wearing warm but loose-fitting clothing that allows for ease of movement. Long pants (preferably not denim; consider snow pants or a fabric that is water resistant), a light sweatshirt and gloves/mittens are the perfect combination. Layers are also a great option! The rinks are cool inside, but not cold.
The ice skates hurt my feet. What should I do?
Ice skates do not feel like shoes and are known to feel tight and stiff when first learning to skate. If you try a pair of skates and they are pinching your feet or causing them to cramp, please try a different/larger pair. The skates should not be so big that your feet move around inside the skate and should be snug on your foot without pain. We also recommend wearing thin socks that reach above the top of the boot. Lastly, check with a coach or the Skating Director and make sure you’re tying your skates properly.
Can my child use double bladed skates during class?
NO! Double-bladed skates do not let your child learn to skate. With 2 parallel blades they cannot use the edges of the skates and that is what allows them to learn all the skills required for ice skating.
Do I need to buy ice skates?
You do NOT need to buy skates. You are welcome to rent skates that are available at the rink during classes. We do, however, recommend consulting your Skating Director as your child progresses to find out when the appropriate time is to invest in the skater’s own equipment. We rent sizes from Youth 7 through Adult Men's 14.
Are ice skates available?
Yes, ice skates are available for a rental fee during your skating lessons. The skates must be returned at the end of each class. If you have not worn skates before, please arrive at least 20 minutes early to your first class to make sure you have enough time to find skates that fit properly. The cost is $2.00 per week or $12.00 for the entire session and is non-refundable for any reason.
DO YOU HAVE A SKATING BACKGROUND?
How about joining our Learn to Skate team as an instructor! APPLY HERE
Can I/my child take a trial class?
Unfortunately, we do not offer trial lessons. 1. Due to insurance requirements, we are unable to offer you a trial class without payment. 2. Our beginning levels often fill-up and we are unable to accommodate extra skaters who may or may not remain in the program. You are more than welcome to come observe a class from the stands/bleachers during our regular class times to see what the classes involve, however you may not go out on the ice. We also offer Public Skating (view our Schedule tab) which is a great way to try skating before deciding to sign-up for a lesson.
What time are classes held this session? Why do class times vary from session to session?
Due to the large number of groups and classes, the time of classes can change slightly from session to session. Please refer to the registration information for each session for exact times of classes. The class schedule, which includes practice times, is always available on the Learn to Skate page of our website.
How do I find my class each week?
Each week of class, please check in at the registration table when you enter the rink and pick-up your or your skater’s nametag. On week 1, you will receive an explanation of how to find your class at this time, when your instructor will be holding up a colored sign that will match your skater's nametag. Each week you will then meet your instructor in the lobby and they will escort you or your skater onto the ice for class. There will be staff located in the lobby helping direct you as well. Please return your nametag to the registration table before you leave each week.
I/My child has been skating for a long time, although we have never taken a class. Can we skip the first level?
We still ask that you sign up for the first level for their age group (see answer above). If you/your child has some skating experience and can easily perform all of the required skills, the instructors will work with you/them to find a more appropriate level for you/them once classes have begun. Please note that parents can be on-ice (while wearing skates) with the Parent Tot class ONLY.
My child has never taken ice skating classes before. What level should I sign him/her up for?
If you or your child has never taken lessons before, please register for either Snowplow Sam 1 or Parent-Tot (ages 3-5), Basic 1 (age 6-12), Teen (age 13-17) or Adult (age 18+), depending on the age of the person taking the class.
We are currently taking classes but registration ends before the session is complete so I don’t know if I or my child will pass to the next level. What level should I register for?
We ask that you register AFTER your skater has been tested in week 5 of the program. Your instructor will inform you on test week (week 5) what the next recommended level is. You will receive an evaluation form from your instructor and will be able to go home that day and register online.
What is the refund or credit policy?
Our program does not provide refunds for any reason. Credits are given through week 3 of the program. Credits will only be issued for those classes not attended. All other circumstances will be given a review at management’s discretion. If a refund is granted a portion will be retained as a registration fee. In the event that a class session must be suspended/cancelled for any reason, a credit will be issued for any class that was not able to be held. No refunds will be given for any reason.
Are there any discounts?
We do not currently offer discounts for class registrations.
What is included in the class fee?
The fee you pay for class includes one 30-minute lesson once per week for the duration of the session, and 20-minutes of optional practice time per week. Additionally, your first session of the season, which runs from July 1st – June 30th, will include a $17.25 fee for your or your skater’s Learn to Skate USA Membership.
I have a problem with my account that I created online. What do I do now?
Please call us at 517-336-4272 with problem details so that we can assist you.
Are helmets required?
We STRONGLY recommend wearing a helmet, but we do not require wearing one. A winter sports helmet (i.e. a helmet for sledding, snowboarding, skiing, etc.) is the best option because they protect more of the back of the head than a bike helmet. These helmets are available at most sporting goods stores. If you do not have access to a winter sports helmet, the next best option is a bike helmet that fits the head correctly without slipping forward or back. Unfortunately, if you forget to bring a helmet, the East Lansing Ice Cube is NOT able to lend you one due to insurance liabilities.
What type of skates should my new skater use?
Typically, we find that beginning very young skaters in figure skates is easier for them. The blade on a figure skate has less curvature than a hockey blade and balance is easier to attain for a little one who isn’t quite steady on their feet. Having said that, every child is different and some will find the process equally fun and can progress just fine using a hockey skate when they’re starting their skating journey. The most important part as a parent is to be open-minded about any advice you may receive from your instructor or the Skating Director about what might work best for your child. If your child is excited to skate and you want to foster that excitement, make it your priority that they learn to love it. Wearing a figure skate when they are 3 will not prevent a skater from going to the NHL, just as wearing a hockey skate will not prevent them from learning a double axel down the line. Help them enjoy the process by finding what works!
What should I/my child wear to ice skating class?
For everyone, we recommend wearing warm but loose-fitting clothing that allows for ease of movement. Long pants (preferably not denim; consider snow pants or a fabric that is water resistant), a light sweatshirt and gloves/mittens are the perfect combination. Layers are also a great option! The rinks are cool inside, but not cold.
The ice skates hurt my feet. What should I do?
Ice skates do not feel like shoes and are known to feel tight and stiff when first learning to skate. If you try a pair of skates and they are pinching your feet or causing them to cramp, please try a different/larger pair. The skates should not be so big that your feet move around inside the skate and should be snug on your foot without pain. We also recommend wearing thin socks that reach above the top of the boot. Lastly, check with a coach or the Skating Director and make sure you’re tying your skates properly.
Can my child use double bladed skates during class?
NO! Double-bladed skates do not let your child learn to skate. With 2 parallel blades they cannot use the edges of the skates and that is what allows them to learn all the skills required for ice skating.
Do I need to buy ice skates?
You do NOT need to buy skates. You are welcome to rent skates that are available at the rink during classes. We do, however, recommend consulting your Skating Director as your child progresses to find out when the appropriate time is to invest in the skater’s own equipment. We rent sizes from Youth 7 through Adult Men's 14.
Are ice skates available?
Yes, ice skates are available for a rental fee during your skating lessons. The skates must be returned at the end of each class. If you have not worn skates before, please arrive at least 20 minutes early to your first class to make sure you have enough time to find skates that fit properly. The cost is $2.00 per week or $12.00 for the entire session and is non-refundable for any reason.
DO YOU HAVE A SKATING BACKGROUND?
How about joining our Learn to Skate team as an instructor! APPLY HERE
Can I/my child take a trial class?
Unfortunately, we do not offer trial lessons. 1. Due to insurance requirements, we are unable to offer you a trial class without payment. 2. Our beginning levels often fill-up and we are unable to accommodate extra skaters who may or may not remain in the program. You are more than welcome to come observe a class from the stands/bleachers during our regular class times to see what the classes involve, however you may not go out on the ice. We also offer Public Skating (view our Schedule tab) which is a great way to try skating before deciding to sign-up for a lesson.
