My husband has taught three boys to skate and his recommendation is an adult with a strong back is the best aid He has tried the metal aids that are available and both he and the boys found it frustrating. I have also used them teaching young children and I find them very difficult to slide across the ice.
When I used to teach skiing to young children I found a hoola hoop really helpful. Perhaps that could work too for skating – there are two different heights available and there is some stability available for the child yet you are free to pull them (while skating backwards) and give encouraging directions. Good luck!!

Thanks Janet, I think the hoola hoop idea is a good one! And maybe since most rinks don’t allow these aids anyway, we will continue with the strong back, mostly my husbands. :]