Skate Spots Bring Kids Together

The summer air buzzes with the sound of wheels on concrete as young riders gather at a local skate park. A four‑year‑old boy, who has already spent more than a year on his board, rolls in front of the crowd with energy that rivals older skaters. His mom says he spends four days a week there, learning new tricks and looking up to the older kids. Around thirty children between four and twelve are in a camp that runs on Tuesdays at the Tustin Legacy Skatepark. The program offers free skating, games like “Red light, green light, ” and even a chance to win T‑shirts. A coach once tried to teach the crew the Macarena during a break, adding a playful twist to the day. The idea behind this camp came from a woman who grew up in Newport Beach, taught abroad, and holds a master’s degree in education. She wanted to combine learning with skating, using professional riders as role models while stressing safety—her coaches always wear helmets to set an example.Since its start in 2024, the organization has expanded from fifteen after‑school spots to twenty across Orange County. It now runs camps at several parks, including a newly renovated one in Costa Mesa and an on‑site setup in Newport Coast. The team recently secured a permit to host competitions, opening new possibilities for the growing community. Financial support is part of the plan: a local surf shop partners with the program to give discounts on gear, and sponsors provide equipment for kids who can’t afford it. Coaches undergo thorough background checks to ensure a safe environment. A supervisor from Huntington Beach, who once won a local skate contest, describes the group as more of a family than just a camp. Beyond skating, the program offers an art class where kids paint boards and create shirts. Even parents get a break with a coffee truck that also serves lemonade for the young skaters. The focus remains on friendship, community, and shared passion—values that resonate with families who see their children thrive in a supportive setting.