Start with basic safety rules and proper rink etiquette
Make sure skaters wear properly fitted skates, helmets, and warm clothing
Teach how to stand up on the ice using bent knees and feet shoulder-width apart
Show how to fall safely by bending knees and landing on hands and forearms, not wrists
Teach how to get up by first getting onto hands and knees, then placing one skate under the body and pushing up
Practice marching in place on the ice to build balance
Teach small steps and weight shifting before gliding
Show how to glide with knees bent, arms out, and eyes forward
Teach how to stop by using a snowplow stop or by stepping to the side
Practice turning by shifting weight and looking in the direction of travel
Teach how to skate forward before introducing backward movement
Break skills into short, simple steps
Give clear demonstrations before asking them to try
Offer one correction at a time
Use encouraging, calm feedback
Keep practice sessions short and frequent
Stay close enough to assist but allow independent practice
Match instruction to the learner’s age, confidence, and skill level
Reinforce patience and consistency
End each session with a positive note and a review of what was learned