Add ice skating to your list of ways to beat the heat this summer and at Recess at the Rink, it’s even cheaper than a movie. Designed for children 2 to 8 and their caregivers, Recess at the Rink is an opportunity to either work on your skills or get introduced to the ice in a low-key setting.
The ice rink is divided in half. On one side, mini hockey players chase and shoot foam pucks (provided by the ice rink, along with small nets) and on the other side, skaters can get comfortable on the ice by using orange buckets to lean on and playing with a basketful of beanbag stuffed animals.
My four year old, who was a complete beginner during her first Recess at the Rink, likes to take the animals for rides on her bucket, and one day she and a friend held an animal tea party on the ice, all great ways to improve her comfort level on skates.
If your child is already confident on the ice, you can sit and watch from a bench just off the ice. Pop music usually plays making for a festive atmosphere, and it has never been crowded in the three times we have participated. The brochure produced by the ice rink says an instructor will be there to give pointers; we only saw an instructor once in the times we went — she was friendly and helpful.
My daughter usually lasts about 45 minutes until it’s time to take a break with a free cup of hot chocolate at the snack bar (other food and drink is available too, but not many healthy choices). While we sit and sip we chat about how strange and fun it is to wear pants and gloves when it’s steamy outside.
Cost: $7 per child (one adult is free) which includes a 90 ice skating session, skate rentals and a free hot chocolate.
Schedule: Recess at the Rink is a year-round program. IBe sure to check the schedule before going as sometimes it does change. No registration is required, however passes go on sale 30 minutes before the session begins. Arrive early to avoid a sell-out since this can be a popular program.
Parking: On the top level of the Ballston Mall, $1 for up to 3 hours. Also Metro accessible from the Ballston station on the Orange line.
