The Montclair State Ice Arena’s Learn to Skate program is a comprehensive, inclusive skating experience designed for everyone from tots to adults. Following the United States Figure Skating (USFS) Learn to Skate USA curriculum, our year-round classes provide a structured, supportive environment where skaters of all abilities can progress at their own pace. Each 30-minute group lesson is carefully crafted to build skills, confidence, and technique, with the added benefits of USFS membership and six complimentary public skate passes so you can keep practicing your new skills.
Whether you’re stepping onto the ice for the first time or ready to build on your skills, we have a Learn to Skate class for you!
Find Your Starting Point:
My Tot & Me (Ages 2–4): A fun introduction to skating for young children with a parent or guardian on the ice.
Snowplow Sam (Ages 6 & Under): Beginner skating classes designed for young children to build confidence, balance and basic skating skills.
Basic Skills (Ages 7–12): From first steps to more advanced skills, skaters progress through levels as their abilities develop.
Teen & Adult (Ages 13+): Whether you’re a complete beginner or returning to skating, our Adult Basic Skills classes offer a welcoming place to start.
Learn to Skate for Hockey: Interested in hockey? Skaters should first develop basic skating skills. Those with limited or no skating experience should register for Snowplow Sam 1 (ages 4–6) or Basic 1 (ages 7–12).
Not sure which level is right for you or your child? Explore our class levels and find the best fit!
Online session registration is now closed for Fall Learn to Skate. Walk-on classes are still available for the remainder of the session.
Note: Walk-on rates do not include Public Skate Session.
Registration Is Now Open!
Join us for Winter Learn to Skate! Classes are available for ages 2 through adult, with multiple days and times to choose from.
Missed the start? You can still join! Prorated registration is available during the first four weeks of the session, with fees automatically adjusted based on your registration date.
After the first four weeks, walk-on classes will be available for the remainder of the session.
*IMPORTANT: MY TOT Class Time Change in January
Please note that class times change during the Winter Learn to Skate session.
December 5, 12 & 19: Choose either 12:20–12:50 PM or 12:50–1:20 PM.
January 9 – February 20: All classes move to 10:10–10:40 AM.
Both classes will move to 10:10 AM beginning January 9.
PLEASE NOTE: Learn to Skate registrations are non-refundable and there are no make-up sessions. If you are unsure of your skill level, register for Basic 1 (all ages) or Snow Plow Sam 1 (6 and under). Our instructors will evaluate your skills and place you in the perfect class during the first session
Click to open tabs and learn more about each level.
The My Tot & Me program at Montclair State Ice Arena offers a fun, interactive skating experience for parents and children. Families receive ten 30-minute group lessons and six public skate passes. This unique class allows parents and tots to learn skating fundamentals together, creating memorable moments of shared discovery on the ice.
At Montclair State Ice Arena, our My Tot & Me – Hockey program is a fun, interactive way for parents and young children to learn the basics of hockey together. This program includes a 30-minute group sessions and six public skate passes.
Parents and tots will build confidence on the ice while learning foundational skills like balance, movement, and stick handling — all in a supportive, play-based environment. It’s a great way to introduce your child to hockey while making memories side by side.
Please Note: Children must be able to skate unassisted. Full equipment is recommended for the child. Parents should come with a helmet, gloves, and a stick.
Snowplow Sam 1-4 invites children age 6 and younger to learn the joys of ice skating in a safe, introductory setting. Young skaters will have fun while learning how to fall and get back up, how to march across the ice and ultimately build confidence in themselves and their abilities. The classes, divided into four progressive levels for kids with no prior skating experience, help preschool-age skaters develop the coordination and strength to move across the ice.
Upon completing the Snowplow Sam curriculum, skaters can enter Basic Skills at their corresponding level or move on to pursue a specific discipline.
Ice skating is a thrilling fitness activity for adults of all ages and abilities. Our Learn to Skate USA program offers a supportive environment to enhance your confidence, coordination, and skills on the ice.
Whether you’re a beginner or returning skater, our curriculum caters to your level, starting with basics like gliding and stopping, and progressing to turns and spins at your own pace. You’ll enjoy benefits such as improved balance, a full-body workout, stress relief, and a chance to connect with a friendly community.
No experience is needed—just bring your enthusiasm and a desire to learn. Your exciting skating journey starts here!
Learn to Skate USA for Hockey – Hockey 1 -4 is a comprehensive program designed to teach beginner hockey players the fundamental skating skills needed for the sport. The curriculum focuses on developing essential techniques for young athletes aged 4-10. Structured in four progressive badge levels it teaches skating without using a puck initially, focuses on building confidence on the ice, and develops agility and hockey-specific movement skills
USA Hockey recommends age-appropriate drills to help players develop essential skating and hockey skills. Young athletes should build confidence by mastering the basic stance, stride mechanics, knee bending, and edge control before advancing to programs like Learn to Play or the American Development Model (ADM).
Participants must be able to skate the entire width of the rink at a medium pace unassisted and must be able to skate backwards slowly. If participant has limited to no skating experience, please sign up for Snow Plow 1 (ages 4-6) or Basic 1 (ages 7-12).
Montclair State Ice Arena offers weekday Learn to Skate sessions tailored for homeschooling families, providing a fun and active way to connect, learn, and build skills during the school day. Following the nationally recognized Learn to Skate USA curriculum, skaters of all ages and abilities can develop balance, coordination, and confidence on the ice in a supportive, welcoming environment.
Each session includes a group lesson taught by certified instructors, 30 minutes dedicated practice time and public skating time immediately afterward, plus additional public skate passes to keep practicing! It’s a great way for homeschoolers to stay active, meet new friends, and enjoy a unique physical activity that promotes fitness, focus, and fun year-round.
Please choose the skaters level on the preceding tabs and select the Tuesday 11:30 class time.
The Montclair State Ice Arena offers two progressive programs for skaters advancing from the Basic Skills 1-4:
ASPIRE CLASSES: Designed for skaters of all ages in Basic 5-8 levels and marks the transition from basic skating to figure skating, teaching advanced foundational skills. Youth and Adult classes are offered.
ASPIRE ACADEMY: Open to all students who have completed Basic 8 and offers more advanced skill development and a comprehensive training environment.
Both programs provide structured pathways to help skaters develop their technique, confidence, and skating potential.
U.S. Figure Skating Membership: Your Pathway to Success
U.S. Figure Skating membership offers skaters of all levels exclusive benefits:
Membership is included with Learn to Skate enrollment, making it easy to start your skating journey!
Important: Wear this tag to ALL classes!
We’re excited to assist you with any inquiries you may have! Don’t hesitate to get in touch with us.
