Students from PS 134 in Kensington hit the ice Wednesday during a field trip to Brooklyn Bridge Park, where they got a lesson from Disney on Ice’s professional skaters and performers.
Despite strong winds, the youngsters managed to find their footing — and did not seem to mind the cold at Glide, the borough’s newest ice skating rink which debuted this winter under the bridge.
“It’s a dream come true,” said Disney On Ice skater Emily Lyeth. “The wind made it an extra challenge. I’ve never had everyone pushed across the ice by the wind before but it was fun. The children seemed to have really enjoyed it.”
Ice skating is known to bolster motor skill development. According to the National Center of Biotechnology Information, when children have good motor control, it helps them to explore the world around them and also promotes cognitive development. Motor skills involving every part of the body enhance opportunities for social interaction, something educators said is especially crucial after kids were stuck learning at home during the COVID-19 pandemic.
“It’s a great physical activity,” said Lyeth, who is on her first tour with Disney on Ice. “It’s a way to move your body and stay in shape but also a very good discipline-building skill. Ice skating doesn’t come naturally so getting out there and getting on the ice is a great way to teach kids how to persevere.”
After some gliding and a few falls (and lots of smiles and laughter), the students were treated to some hot chocolate inside Glide’s cafeteria — where a surprise guest was waiting for them. Disney’s own Mickey Mouse stopped by to take pictures with the kids and their families.
“I fell like 500 times,” said PS 134 student Kengo Sato. Sato has skated before at the borough’s well known ice rink at Prospect Park, but he told Brooklyn Paper he now prefers skating under the Brooklyn Bridge.
Disney on Ice: Find Your Hero returns to Brooklyn for eight shows beginning Jan. 18, through Jan. 21.
For more information or to purchase tickets, visit barclayscenter.com.
