This winter I have had the pleasure of spending many a weekend morning ice skating with one of my nieces by choice, Daisy. At age seven, she is always game to get outside, lace up her skates and hit the ice. As you all know, there is something really wonderful about spending time with the kids in your life, but when you share in an experience, support and encourage each other and have some rosy cheeks at the end - well, it's almost magical.
 
I don't remember where or when I learned to skate, but when it comes to sports where what comes naturally isn't the main movement, I'm a big believer in lessons - think skating, skiing and swimming. (That's right, Auntie, take a lesson or two - or have the two of you take one together!) Daisy started taking lessons last winter and has a great sense of confidence on the ice. The other day while we were waiting for the Zamboni to resurface the ice, I asked Daisy what her advice would be for a soon-to-be skater. "Dress warmly and know how to get up if you fall down," she said. "Oh, and make sure you have a few dollars for hot chocolate afterwards."
 
While the weather is still brisk, try to find an outdoor rink that provides rentals, lessons and of course, hot chocolate. Indoor ice rinks are great, too, and available year-round. Please remember to use extreme caution and vigilance when skating on a frozen pond and if your niece and nephew are very young, have them wear their bike helmet until they get the basics down.   
 
Although many schools do not offer competitive winter sports, ice skating can be a life-long activity and is the basis for not one but several Olympic sports: figure skating, ice dancing, speed skating, short track and hockey. You can be a fan for life, Auntie, but it's great to get in the game, too.
 
Ice, ice, baby!

Amy Shigo is a sports journalist.

Published: March 2, 2011