Learn to Skate
ISCC Learn to Skate is Connecticut’s leading ice skating academy. We offer high-quality small-group skating lessons for all ages using Learn to Skate USA curriculum endorsed by U.S. Figure Skating and USA Hockey.
At the ISCC, we teach the fundamentals of skating with a variety of safe and enjoyable instructional techniques. Our program develops skating skills and self-confidence needed to encourage ongoing participation in recreational skating, hockey, and figure skating.
Exercise and enjoyment for the whole family. We look forward to providing you with a fun, social, and safe environment to learn and grow!
Walking through Age 5
RINK ROOKIES. A no skating, "you and me" experience. Rink Rookies is for any child who can walk, through age 5. This unstructured playtime with parents/guardians lets kids explore a snowy ice surface without skates safely and at their own pace. The perfect first step toward any skating path. Helmets are required.
ICE EXPLORERS. For skaters ages 2.5 - 4 years old. Get ready to put on those skates! The first two weeks will be off-ice getting familiar with the ice and skates before moving to on-ice activities. The program builds confidence, social skills, and motor development. Helmets are required.
FIRST STEPS: For ages 3 – 5, focusing on agility, balance, and coordination in a fun, safe, play-based environment. Helmets are required.
Ages 5 - 16
BASIC SKILLS: For beginner to mid-level skaters ages 6 – 16. Classes teach the FUNdamentals of skating in a positive, social environment to build confidence and coordination. Helmets required for skaters under 7. Classes run Sunday, Tuesday, and Saturday.
ASPIRE: This invite-only class is designed for skaters ready to advance beyond Learn to Skate, building skills for figure skating. Each session includes off-ice training and on-ice instruction. The program focuses on refining technique, improving strength, and developing performance skills in a supportive group environment.
HOCKEY FOUNDATIONS. Learn to skate as a pathway into hockey in this skills-focused class for future hockey players or anyone looking to try hockey in a fun, low-pressure environment. Skaters will build strong foundational skating skills while learning hockey-style movement and coordination.
Helmets are required. Gloves and stick recommended. Rental skates available.
HOMESCHOOL SKATE. program for homeschool students ages 5–18. Designed for beginner through mid-level skaters, classes follow our Basic Skills curriculum to teach the FUNdamentals of skating, build confidence, and improve coordination in a fun, social environment. Helmets are required for skaters under 7. Classes run on Friday afternoons.
Ages 16+
ADULT ACADEMY: For beginner to mid-level skaters ages 16+, whether new, returning, or looking to improve. Build fitness, balance, coordination, and proper skating technique. Classes run Sunday, Tuesday, and Saturday.
ADULT ASPIRE: This invite-only class is designed for skaters ages 16+ ready to advance beyond Learn to Skate. Includes off-ice and on-ice training to refine technique, build strength, and develop performance skills in a supportive environment.
More Information
Included with your registration:
- Learn to Skate USA Membership. Be a member of the best skating program endorsed by US Figure Skating, USA Hockey, and US Speedskating!
- Secondary sport accident insurance
- Subscription to Learn to Skate USA Magazine
- Ability to participate in lessons, performances, competitions and all activities associated with Learn to Skate USA!
Frequently Asked Questions
We've put together a list of the questions we hear the most, but if you don't see what you're looking for, let us know!
How do I register?
ISCC Skating Academy offers secure and easy online registration. Simply choose the class that’s right for you or your skater, and complete the registration process online.
Learning to skate is just a click away. Register today!
Are makeup or switches allowed?
We do not pro-rate or provide make-ups for missed classes or class switches.
Can I join the class after the session?
Please call the rink at 860.651.5400 or email Jzielinski@isccskate.com to inquire about availability.
Classes fill quickly and registration will close once we begin preparing rosters. Please note that we do not pro-rate tuition.
Do I need to have done Cycle I to do Cycle II?
No, our sessions are always open to ALL skaters! We break each season up into two six-week cycles and welcome skaters new and returning to each session.
What level do I sign up for?
ISCC keeps track of each skater’s level in our internal database, so there is no need to worry if you do not remember your skater’s current level. Simply register for the appropriate class based on your skater’s age:
- Walking to age 5: Rink Rookies
- Ages 2.5 to 4: Ice Explorers
- Ages 3 to 5: First Steps
- Ages 6 and up: Basic Skills
- Ages 16 and up: Adult Skating Academy
Adult Aspire and Next Steps Aspire are offered by invitation only.
If you have any questions about placement, please email us at Jzielinski@isccskate.com.
What should I expect on my first day?
You will receive an email 24 - 48 hours before class to walk you through what your first day will look like.
How long does it take to pass each level?
Each level is built on the foundational skills learned in the previous one, so mastery is important before moving ahead.
Every skater progresses at their own pace. On average, it takes one to three sessions to pass a level, though some skaters may move more quickly and others may benefit from additional time to build confidence and strength.
Our coaches continuously assess progress during class. They will communicate with skaters and parents about areas that need improvement and work to reinforce those skills to ensure each skater is fully prepared before advancing to the next level.
Do you offer lessons for adults?
Yes. We offer an adult group during every session.
Adults should register for our Adult Skating Academy, which is specifically designed for skaters ages 16 and older. This group runs as a separate class on the ice, allowing adult skaters to learn and progress in a comfortable, age-appropriate environment.
If I sign up with my child, will we be in the same class?
No. Adults are placed in our Adult Skating Academy (ages 16+), while children are placed in age-appropriate classes such as First Steps (ages 3–5) or Basic Skills (ages 6+).
If you would like to be on the ice with your young child, please look into Rink Rookies.
At this time, we do not offer parent-and-toddler classes beyond Rink Rookies.
What should I wear?
Layers are always a good choice to ensure warmth during the lesson. Waterproof snow pants that still allow for movement and gloves or mittens are recommended. Please, no knee pads as they are slippery and make it difficult to stand up and limit your range of motion. Helmets are required for skaters under the age of 7. Bike helmets are fine.
Are skate rentals available?
Yes, skate rentals (Figure or Hockey) are available for $5 for a pair. You may pre-purchase your rentals at the time of registration.
Watch the “Learn to Skate USA” video below on how to tie your skates.
Where can I buy ice skates?
Some sporting goods stores carry ice skates. Figure skates are recommended for beginners as they provide better support and a better blade to learn on. We prohibit double runner blades, (2 blades on each skate). We recommend renting before buying. As students show interest in hockey vs figure skating, we can recommend our in-house sports shop or other figure skating-specific stores.
Are helmets required?
Helmets are required for skaters under the age of 7. Bike helmets are fine.
Learn to Skate 2026
All of our registrations will use the Finnly Sports system.
CLICK HERE TO CREATE YOUR ACCOUNT
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