Northbrook Park District offering free skating classes for kids Dec. 2

Is your child ready for skating lessons? The Northbrook Park District will offer free skating classes on Saturday, Dec. 2 for children ages 3 to 13 who are interested in learning to skate.

"Try Skating for Free" will take place indoors at the Northbrook Sports Center and is open to children who have not taken skating lessons. Children must be potty trained.

Skaters will be grouped by age. Professional staff will teach basic skating skills and help determine readiness for classes offered by the park district.

"This is the perfect opportunity to get ready for the holiday season," said Skating Supervisor Ania Lopez. "With a little instruction (and cooperation from the weather) your child will be more comfortable enjoying skating outdoors at Meadowhill Park and Tower Rink in Northbrook, or even at Millennium Park in downtown Chicago."

Loaner skates will be provided Dec. 2. Participants should wear a light jacket, joggers/leggings (no jeans or flared pants), long socks, gloves/mittens (not fuzzy, as the material sticks to the ice and leaves a residue). A helmet is not necessary, but skaters are encouraged to bring their own. A limited number of loaner helmets will be available at the Northbrook Sports Center.

Registration is required; you will be asked what size skates your child needs. You can register online at nbparks.org with code 23365 for the 1:30 p.m. free class or code 23366 for the 2:30 p.m. free class, both on Dec. 2.

You can also register in person at the Northbrook Sports Center, 1730 Pfingsten Roard in Northbrook. For more information, visit nbparks.org or call (847) 291-2993.

Established in 1927, Northbrook Park District's mission is to enhance the community by providing outstanding services, parks and facilities through environmental, social and financial stewardship.