Elementary Skating Unit Gets Kids Rolling

Roller skating has been a beloved pastime for over a century, providing a solid cardiovascular workout and plenty of fun for children and adults alike. Recently, Bloomfield Hills Schools students in grades 3-5 (and even some DK - grade 2 classes) began a new skating unit at school, donning wheels and mastering some moves as part of physical education class.

Teachers began the multi-week unit prepared for all levels of learners: some students were quite experienced while others tried on skates for the very first time. Lessons therefore included quite a bit of choice depending on skaters’ comfort levels, as well as significant emphasis on fundamentals and safety. Some grade 5 classes used rollerblades instead of roller skates (if the gym flooring would allow), and PE teachers could adjust the duration of the unit based on student interest.

The first lesson was about safety. Students learned how to put on wrist guards, helmets, and skates, and how to secure laces so they don’t get caught in the wheels. Large floor mats provided a safe surface to practice fundamentals, including the “T-Stop” (a footing to stand still on skates), and the “Baby V” (where toes are pointed outward for stability and to initiate movement). Students also learned the safest way to fall. “If you lose control and feel like you have to fall,” Mr. Schadler told his grade 4 students at Way, “remember to crouch like you’re about to sit down, and then drop to your bottom.” Students practiced falling on mats, and learned why they shouldn’t land on an outstretched hand. Helmets were also a strict requirement at all times during the unit.

Once comfortable with the basics, skaters were allowed to choose how far to venture out. Less confident skaters may have opted to practice near the floor mat, while experienced skaters might have skated around the gym on their own, or stayed near a friend who needed a little support. After the first skating session, Kingston Patros (Lone Pine grade 5) said, “Since I have some experience with roller blading, it helps me with roller skating. It’s very different though because of the weight in the front…but overall it’s pretty fun.” 

BHS is proud to offer an engaging and varied physical education curriculum across the district. We hope this skating unit will inspire students to continue this heart-healthy activity long after the unit ends!