Children can start skating as early as age 3 through our Learn to Skate program. We offer programs for children ages 3–16, including Learn to Play Hockey and Blades youth hockey teams. No prior skating or hockey experience is required to get started.

My child has never skated before — is that okay?

Absolutely. Many of our skaters start with no skating experience at all. Our Learn to Skate program is designed specifically for first-time and nervous beginners, using games, bubbles, and fun-based instruction to help children feel comfortable and confident on the ice.

What is the difference between Learn to Skate and Learn to Play?

Learn to Skate focuses on basic skating skills like balance, gliding, stopping, and confidence on the ice.
Lean to Play Hockey builds on those skating skills and introduces beginner hockey concepts such as stick handling, passing, shooting, and simple game play. Learn to Skate is usually the first step for new families.

Does my child need to know how to skate before playing hockey?

Yes — skating is the foundation of hockey. Most children begin with Learn to Skate before moving into Learn to Play Hockey. Our coaches will help guide families on when their child is ready for the next step.

What equipment does my child need?

For Learn to Skate, children need ice skates and a helmet. For Learn to Play and youth hockey, additional equipment is required, and we provide guidance to help families understand what’s needed and where to find affordable options.

Is youth hockey expensive?

As a nonprofit, volunteer-run organization, Salem Swampscott Youth Hockey works hard to keep programs affordable. We also offer scholarships and financial assistance to help ensure hockey is accessible to families in Salem, Swampscott, and the surrounding North Shore communities.

Is this program competitive?

Our beginner programs focus on fun, skill development, and confidence, not competition. As players grow, team programs introduce age-appropriate competition while maintaining a positive, supportive environment that follows the American Development Model (ADM).

Who coaches the programs?

Our programs are led by trained volunteer coaches and supported by Blades players who help mentor younger skaters. This creates a unique, family-style atmosphere where kids learn from role models they look up to.

What if my child is shy or nervous?

That’s very common, especially for first-time skaters. Our coaches are experienced at helping nervous children feel safe, supported, and encouraged. Many kids who start out unsure quickly gain confidence through our fun-first approach.

How do families move from Learn to Skate into hockey?

Many families move from Learn to Skate → Learn to Play Hockey → Blades youth hockey teams. There is no pressure or rush — we guide families through each step and help determine when a child is ready to advance.

Where do families come from?

We proudly serve families from Salem, Swampscott, Marblehead, Beverly, Peabody, and surrounding North Shore communities.

How do I register or learn more?

You can register directly through our website or contact us with any questions. We’re always happy to help new families understand the programs and next steps.

Register for Learn to Skate
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What if my child can’t skate at all?

That’s completely okay. Many children start our Learn to Skate program without ever having been on the ice. Our coaches use games, bubbles, and encouragement to help kids feel comfortable and confident at their own pace.

What if my child cries or wants to come off the ice?

This happens more often than you’d think — especially with younger skaters. Coaches are trained to be patient and supportive, and parents are welcome to watch from the stands. Most kids settle in quickly 

Is hockey only for boys?

Not at all. We welcome all children and encourage both boys and girls to participate at every level of our program.

What if my child doesn’t want to play hockey long-term?

That’s okay too. Our goal is to create a positive experience on the ice. Even if a child doesn’t continue into team hockey, they gain skating skills, confidence, and athletic development that carry into other sports.

Can older kids start hockey?

Yes. Children can start skating or playing hockey at many different ages. We help place skaters in the right program based on age and experience, not when they started.

How do I talk to someone if I’m unsure?

We encourage new families to reach out with questions. Our volunteers are happy to talk through concerns, explain programs, and help you decide what’s best for your child.

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Why Do Hockey Schedules Change So Often?

Youth hockey schedules can feel confusing, especially for families new to the sport. While we do our best to share information as early as possible, hockey schedules are affected by many factors outside of a local program’s control.

Why don’t we hear about games until a week before?

Game schedules are often finalized by the league or district only after ice time is confirmed for all teams. Because rinks are shared by multiple organizations — including youth programs, high schools, colleges, and public skating — final game times may not be released until closer to the date. This ensures fairness and availability for all teams.

Why are there so many schedule changes?

Schedule changes can happen for several reasons, including:

• Ice availability changes at the rink
  

• Conflicts with tournaments or league events
  

• Weather-related issues
  

• Referee availability

• Adjustments made by the league or district.

Why can’t schedules be locked in earlier?

Unlike school sports, youth hockey relies heavily on shared ice and volunteer-run leagues. While teams request preferred times, final schedules depend on many moving pieces at the rink and league level. Programs like the Blades often receive confirmed schedules at the same time families do.