Learn to Skate Overview
SQSA Parade’s Learn to Skate program is designed for skaters of all ages and abilities, from first-time beginners to those progressing into advanced skills. Classes focus on developing strong fundamentals—balance, movement, and control—through a structured, level-based curriculum led by certified instructors. Skaters are evaluated regularly to ensure proper placement and steady progression, with opportunities to explore figure skating, hockey skating, or recreational skating paths as they advance. With small class sizes and a supportive environment, Learn to Skate provides a safe, engaging introduction to the ice and a clear pathway into all SQSA programs.
We offer ISI-certified instruction in group lessons for children and adults.
Learn To Skate classes are held at:
Parade Ice Garden
600 Kenwood Parkway,
Minneapolis MN 55403
Parking is free, but may be limited during hockey games, competitions, etc.
Our skate school welcomes skaters of all ages and abilities!
Class Information
ADULT/TEEN: Beginner through intermediate levels.
HOCKEY SKILLS: Fast-paced skating skills for players ages 5–12. Must skate independently.
PIXIES TEAM: Ages 5-11 Strong Pre Alpha-freestyle. Team meets Tuesdays 4:45pm-5:30pm Fall and Winter sessions…
TOTS 1: (ages 3-5): Beginners who have not been on ice or limited. Learn to stand and march on ice.
TOTS 2: (ages 3-5): Passed Tots 1 or can glide/march unassisted.
PRE-ALPHA: (ages 6–12): Basics of forward/backward skating, stops, curves, and turns.
ALPHA: Stroking, crossovers, edges, and stops.
BETA: Backward stroking, crossovers, T-stops, and turns.
GAMMA: Outside 3 turn, mohawk, hockey stop.
DELTA: Advanced edges, bunny hop, lunges, turns.
FREESTYLE 1: Jumps, spins, and advanced skating skills.
FREESTYLE 2: Jumps, spins, and advanced skating skills.
ARTISTRY ON ICE: (Add-on for GAMMA, DELTA, FREESTYLE 1, FREESTYLE 2) Fun with choreography, movement and creativity (Must take with leveled skill class).
SKILLS REFINEMENT: (Add-on for ALPHA, BETA) Individual/small group work on skills at skater's level and practice time.
Skaters are evaluated on the first day for proper placement and again at the end of the session.
Helmets are required for Tots and Pre-Alpha. Warm layers recommended. No double blades.
Skate rental available at Parade Ice Garden for $3 (limited availability).
Parents are not allowed on the ice during instruction. No refunds unless class is canceled.
We cannot offer make-up classes or credit for missed classes.
Please use our Contact Form to send any questions about Learn to Skate classes to our staff.
SQSA Learn to Skate FAQ
How is the Learn-to-Skate season structured throughout the year?
SQSA Learn-to-Skate class schedules vary seasonally throughout the year. Typical offerings include:
- Fall Session: Tuesday evenings and Saturday mornings (late September–mid December)
- Winter Session: Tuesday and Thursday evenings, plus Saturday mornings (early January–mid March)
- Spring Session: Tuesday and Thursday evenings (April–May)
- Summer Session: Wednesday evenings (June–August)
Session dates and class availability may vary slightly from year to year.
What health and safety measures are currently in place?
We follow Ice Sports Industry (ISI) best practices and Parade Ice Garden’s safety guidelines. Classes are kept small to maintain a lower skater-to-coach ratio.
What do I need to wear for classes?
Dress in loose, warm layers. Many younger skaters prefer snow pants for warmth, dryness, and extra padding.
Bring mittens or gloves, socks, and a hat.
Helmets are required for all Tots, Pre-Alpha, Hockey and Adult/Teen skaters. Bike helmets are acceptable.
- No double-blade skates.
- Hockey players should wear equipment if you have it. No stickes are used.
- If using your own skates, use soft soakers and hard guards to protect blades.
- Do not store skates in hard guards; blades may rust.
How should skates fit?
Skates should fit snugly, like a glove, with strong ankle support and proper lacing.
If purchasing used skates, look for:
- Rust-free blades
- Stiff boots that are not broken down
How should we prepare for class?
If you already have skates, try them on and practice lacing them before class.
Please plan to arrive 10–15 minutes early to get ready.
SQSA does not provide staff to tie skates or adjust equipment during class time.
How do I know if my skater is in the correct level?
Skaters are evaluated on the first day of class to help ensure they are placed in the appropriate level. Instructors also continue monitoring progress throughout the session and may recommend a level adjustment if needed.
You can review detailed class descriptions and skill expectations here:
What if my skater does not pass to the next level?
Each class builds on cumulative skating skills that require time, practice, and strength to develop.
It is very common for skaters to repeat a level before mastering all required skills.
Families interested in faster progression are encouraged to:
- Register for back-to-back classes
- Practice outside of weekly lessons
Where can we buy skates or get them sharpened?
Recommended local retailers include:
- Play It Again Sports
- Strauss Skates
- Westwood Sports
Figure skate sharpening is recommended through specialty retailers or go here for information about trusted resources.
What types of skating does SQSA teach?
SQSA teaches the basics for figure skating, hockey, speed skating and recreational skating.
Skating is a lifelong sport that can be enjoyed by athletes of all ages.
What is the difference between Parade, SQSA, and Learn-to-Skate?
Parade Ice Garden is the rink where classes are held.
SportQuest Skating Academy (SQSA) focuses on figure skating development and athlete training.
SQSA Learn-to-Skate is the skating school program designed for skaters of all levels and interests.
What makes SQSA Learn-to-Skate different?
SQSA instructors are trained, certified and insured. We use curriculum and skill-progression levels from Ice Sports Industry, our professional organization.
SQSA offers both U.S. Figure Skating and ISI training opportunities, which many programs do not provide.
Our mission is to create a supportive environment that encourages athletes to develop confidence, discipline, and life skills through skating.
Fall 2026 Learn to Skate Registration
Please read before registering. Classes are held at Parade Ice Garden – Studio Rink, 600 Kenwood Parkway, Minneapolis, MN 55403.
- Register each skater separately.
- Register and pay at checkout to hold your spot. Unpaid registrations are not processed and spaces are not held.
- Most classes meet once per week for 30 minutes. Some classes have a 60-minute option.
- Your selected class/day is your assigned class. No makeups or credits are available for missed classes.
- Withdrawals before the session begins must be emailed and are subject to a $40 processing fee. No refunds are available after classes begin.
Session dates
- Tuesdays, Sept. 29–Dec. 8: Tots, Pre-Alpha, Alpha, Beta, Gamma, Delta, Freestyle 1/2, Adults/Teens.
- Saturdays, Sept. 26–Dec. 12: Tots, Pre-Alpha, Alpha, Beta, Gamma, Delta, Freestyle 1/2, Adults/Teens, Skills Refinement, Artistry on Ice.
Equipment and logistics
- Helmets are required for Tots, Pre-Alpha, Adults/Teens, and Hockey. They are strongly recommended for all skaters.
- Rental skates are available for $3/use, first come first served.
- Dress warmly in layers with mittens/gloves and socks. Snow pants or thick sweatpants are recommended.
- Parking can be busy. Please arrive early and park legally.
- Classes are held unless the rink closes. Assume classes are on unless SQSA emails you.
Questions about private lessons? Most new skaters should complete at least one group session first. Email us for more information.