STORY AND PHOTOS BY KAREN BOSSICK

They wobble onto the ice at Sun Valley’s Outdoor Ice rink, their legs buckling underneath them as they try to get their bearings.

But these pint-sized skaters have hands to cling to—hands belonging to skaters with Ice Dance International.

The professionals coach them to emulate them, putting out their arms for balance. They draw circles on the ice, encouraging the young skaters to try to follow the lines. They skate off a few feet and coax the youngsters to come to them.

And they’re rewarded with smiles as bright as the sun glinting off the skate blades.

The skaters are in Sun Valley for three weeks as part of a three-week residency with Ice Dance International that is in its third year. They are taking part in a unique venture—that of pairing the ice dance choreography of IDI Artistic Director Douglas Webster with ballet choreography by renowned ballet dancer Edward Villella to create a beautiful new form of ensemble ice dancing.

The youngsters taking part with Higher Ground Sun Valley’s afterschool program are dealing with a variety of challenges, including autism spectrum disorders, cognitive disabilities and learning disabilities.

And, while the afternoon lessons they receive from IDI skaters are all about fun, the skating also helps the youngsters with balance and motor skills. And it improves their confidence.

And when the youngsters tucker out, the skaters simply pick them up in their arms and take them for swooping spins across the ice.

“Ice Dance International did this with us last year and the kids picked right up where they left off with nothing but smiles,” said Cara Barrett, of Higher Ground Sun Valley. “We’re pretty lucky to have skaters get out there and volunteer their time.”

Gerardo Perez watched as his six-year-old son Esteban spun around and around with, his hand in the hand of Beata Handra.

“Last year he picked it up quick; he had a great attitude,” said Perez. “He was so happy when they came back because he enjoys it so much. He feels like he wants to keep going and get better. He’s always the first one with skates on, ready to go.”

Beata Handra competed at the 2002 Winter Olympics in Salt Lake City. But she seemed just as enthusiastic skating around the Sun Valley ice rink with her young charge.

“I love it. It’s so rewarding because they ‘re so excited to be out there,” she said. “This kind of enthusiasm is what got all of us into skating. And it’s what keeps us in skating.”

WATCH THE ICE DANCERS TONIGHT AND SATURDAY

Ice Dance International plans to film a show for American Public Television from 8 to midnight tonight and Saturday—Sept. 22 and 23—at Sun Valley’s Outdoor Ice Rink.

Spectators are welcome to watch but will have to stay on the lodge terrace as a drone is being used.

Taping will be done Sunday if either tonight or Saturday’s filming is rained out.