Most children begin skating in Learn to Skate USA group classes at Miami Ice Arena (formerly Kendall Ice Arena), where they learn the basics in a fun, supportive setting and get comfortable on the ice. As kids gain confidence and excitement, many families choose to add private lessons, which can start at any time and help skaters progress faster—especially if they’re interested in early competitions, ice shows, or building strong skills. Semi-private lessons are also available for siblings or close friends who enjoy learning together, making skating a positive and encouraging experience from the very beginning.

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What to Expect Your First Month

• Begin in Learn to Skate USA group classes focused on balance, confidence, and basic skating skills

• Learn proper technique in a fun, encouraging group environment

• Build comfort skating independently on the ice

• Option to add private lessons with Janet at any time for extra support and faster progress

• Ongoing guidance for parents on the best next steps for their child

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Parent FAQs

How old does my child need to be to start? Group class instruction begins at age three.
Most children begin skating around age 5, but readiness depends on balance, attention, and interest. Janet is happy to help guide families.

• Do we need private lessons right away?

No. Most skaters start in Learn to Skate USA group classes. Private lessons can be added at any time if your child wants to progress faster or needs extra support.

• How often should my child skate?

Beginners typically skate 1–2 times per week. As skills and motivation grow, additional ice time and lessons may be added.

• What should my child wear and bring?

Warm layers, gloves, a helmet for beginners if preferred, and properly fitted skates. Janet can recommend equipment as your child progresses.

• How do we know what level or path is right?

Janet works closely with families to recommend the best pathway, whether that’s recreation, testing, competitions, or ice shows.

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• One-on-one coaching focused entirely on your child’s individual needs and learning style

• Personalized goals based on age, skill level, and skating pathway (Learn to Skate USA, testing, competition, or performance)

• Emphasis on strong fundamentals, safe technique, and steady progress

• Supportive, encouraging environment that builds confidence and motivation

• Ideal for skaters ages 5 and up, from first steps through high-level U.S. Figure Skating competition.

Is My Child Ready for Private Lessons?

Your child may be ready for private lessons if they:

• Enjoy skating and ask to practice more

• Want to learn new skills faster

• Are interested in Compete USA competitions, ice shows, or testing

• Participate in athletic activities like dance or gymnastics

• Benefit from one-on-one attention and clear goals

Janet is happy to help families decide when private or semi-private lessons are the right fit.

Schedule Private Lessons

Janet Johnson is available for private and semi-private lessons for skaters ages 5 and up, from beginners to advanced competitors. Families are encouraged to reach out to discuss goals, scheduling, and the best pathway for their child’s skating journey.

Age-Based Skating Pathways

Ages 3–7 | First Steps & Foundations

• Learn to Skate USA group classes

• Focus on balance, coordination, and confidence

• Optional private lessons for faster progress and skill development

Ages 8–12 | Skill Building & Exploration

• Private lessons combined with group classes

• Introduction to Compete USA competitions and ice shows

• Begin U.S. Figure Skating test preparation

Teens | Competitive & Performance Pathways

• Advanced private coaching

• Excel and National Qualifying Series preparation

• Focus on testing, competition strategy, performance quality, and choreography

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Advanced techniques help gifted athletes reach their goals. Janet believes in developing young skaters the right way—starting with strong basics and growing step by step toward higher-level goals. Skaters begin with Learn to Skate USA, where they build balance, confidence, and foundational skills, then progress into structured programs like Excel and Compete USA competitions that introduce goal-setting and fun competitive experiences.

 

As skaters advance, training becomes more focused on testing, performance, and competition pathways, including the Excel competitive track and ultimately the U.S. Figure Skating National Qualifying Series for those pursuing elite levels.

 

At every stage, Janet emphasizes proper technique, confidence, and a positive experience that supports long-term success in the sport.

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Janet has a proven track record of success advancing students from group Learn to Skate Classes to Senior Test and Competition levels. Janet offeres expert planning and guidance on USFS membership through the Miami FSC,  USFS test preparation, competition planning, music editing, costumes, choreography and much more, 

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Visit the Miami Figure Skating Club website for information on club membership.

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Visit Miami Ice Arena for session times and information.