Q. HOW IS THE LEARN-TO-SKATE PROGRAM SET UP?
The United States Figure Skating Association (USFSA) developed the Learn-to-Skate / Skate with U.S. program. There are eight levels that allow you to develop basic skating skills, whether your goal is figure or hockey skating. Each level has a set of elements, skating steps or techniques that build on one another.
We divide class periods into two parts: 30 minutes of group instruction focused on the element
for that particular level, and 30 minutes of supervised practice time.
A schedule is posted near the rink entrance listing who is in each class group, the lesson time, and the practice time for each level. Skaters' nametags are color-coded to match their skill level.
Q. WHAT IS SNOWPLOW SAM?
Snowplow Sam is a separate group set up for smaller children and preschoolers.
Q. HOW MANY SKATERS ARE IN EACH CLASS?
We average 8 to 12 skaters in each class. Each class has a lead instructor and may have assistant instructors if the class is large or has many young skaters.
Q. WHY DO SKATERS NEED THEIR OWN SKATES?
The rental skates at the Ice Box are not flexible and do not have toe picks. Molded plastic boots and blades without picks won't allow you to learn some of the basic skills. We can help you choose an affordable pair of starter skates that will make for a much happier Learn-To-Skate experience.
Q. WHAT SHOULD MAY CHILD WEAR TO CLASS?
Dress them warmly and in clothing that allows for unrestricted movement. Gloves, not mittens, are recommended. Knit hats or ski hats are a great idea.
Q. CAN MY CHILD USE A SKATE AID OR WALKER?
Yes, younger skaters may start by using a skate aid or walker. But our goal is to have them skating on their own as soon as possible.
Q. HOW DO I KNOW HOW MY CHILD IS DOING?
There are skills tests for each skating level. When a skater shows that he or she can perform each skill at that level, we award the skater with an embroidered badge. The skater then moves up to the next level. Your skater also gets a Basic Skills Record Book that lets you and your child keep track of progress. You are also welcome to talk to the child's instructor after class if you have questions or concerns.
Q. WHAT ELSE CAN I DO TO HELP MY CHILD PROGRESS?
To help your child master skating skills, encourage him or her to practice at least an hour each week.
The Star City Figure Skating Club has practice time on most Sundays from 11:10 a.m. - 1:10 p.m., and many Tuesday evenings for an hour starting at 7:10p.m. (Check the Club Calendar for details.)
The Lincoln Stars offer figure skating practice time on Tuesday and Thursday mornings from 5:30 a.m. to 7:30 a.m. They also have public skating times on most Thursday evenings and on weekends.
Q. WHAT OTHER OPPORTUNITIES WILL MY CHILD HAVE WITH THE LEARN-TO-SKATE PROGRAM?
We invite all Learn-to-Skate members to be in the annual Ice Show, held in May. When your child joins the Star City Figure Skating Club, he or she also becomes a member of the U.S. Figure Skating Association and receives Skating magazine.
'FAQ'S' 
