How to Teach Kids to Skate

Does your kid keep asking for skates? Here’s our tips from teaching H to skate plus we’ve done the leg work for you and researched all your big questions on skating.

*Please note not an expert just a mum who’s been reading and learning.

How long does it take to learn?

It’s estimated between 5-10 ‘rides’ to get balance and be able to skate. The more practise the better.

Blades or Skates?

(Quads) Its personal choice. Blades are more for going faster skates are more general purpose and artistic. But both are fun!

Pic: @ebamaar & @lea_rose__  Hats: Adventurer Sophisticat & Adventurer Leopard

How should skates fit?

Snug but not tight. When the foot is flat the toes should be close too/touching the end. For kids and how fast they grow this is tricky so either adjustable skates or size up and thick socks!

How old can kids start skating?

Generally 3 is thought to be a reasonable age but balance and coordination is much better 5-6 years if your less sure.

Helmets

Skate and bike helmets are relatively similar. A bike helmet normally has more ventilation. It’s fine to use a bike helmet for getting started.

How to actually start:

1. Practise on grass/carpet just balance and walking. Treat them like shoes, get comfy in them
2. Start learning to roll (you can be holding them/their hand)
3. Start to teach them to pick up their feet
4. Practise practise practise
5. As they get more confident look at pushing off, going faster and stopping
6. Watch some youtube tutorials together

Enjoy it! X

P.s the skates we have for H are Olympus adjustable we’ve found them great!

Author: Emma Watson is the owner of Little Hotdog Watson

Little Hotdog Watson is a kidswear brand with a difference. We make kids hats unlike any other by combining style + innovation. Our sun hats offer triple protection from UV, Mosquitoes and Overheating, while our winter hats are water resistant, reflective and extra cosy. Take a look at our hats here.

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