CanSkate​​

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Canada's Learn-to-Skate Program

 

CanSkate is Skate Canada's nationally recognized learn-to-skate program for children aged 3 and older. Whether your child is stepping onto the ice for the first time or building confidence on skates, CanSkate provides a fun, safe, and supportive learning environment.

Our certified coaches use games, circuits, music, and age-appropriate activities to help skaters develop strong skating skills while having fun.

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Program Goals

 

Our CanSkate program is designed to:

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• Provide every skater with a safe, welcoming, and inclusive introduction to skating.

• Build confidence while developing fundamental skating skills.

• Teach balance, control, and agility through fun, progressive lessons.

• Encourage personal achievement through rewards and recognition.

• Inspire a lifelong love of skating and physical activity.

 

What Will My Child Learn?

 

The CanSkate program focuses on three key skill areas:

 

Balance

Developing strong forward skating skills and stability on the ice.

 

Control

Learning backward skating, stopping, and overall control.

 

Agility

Practicing turning, jumping, and other skills that improve coordination and movement.

 

As skaters develop these skills, they progress through six stages, with each stage building on the previous one.

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Recognition & Progress

 

Skaters receive recognition for their achievements as they learn new skills.

There are 6 stages in CanSkate and each stage includes the three key skill areas. Awards include:

• Balance Ribbons

• Control Ribbons

• Agility Ribbons

• Stage Badges (Stages 1–6)

To earn a Stage Badge, skaters must successfully earn a ribbon in each skill areas for that stage.

 

Progress is tracked on an iPad that is directly linked to your account in our registration system. You may check your skaters progress at anytime.

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What Happens During a CanSkate Session?

 

Each session includes four parts:

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1. Warm-Up – Prepare for skating through fun movement activities.

2. Lesson Time – Coaches teach new skills using games and skill stations.

3. Group Activity – Skaters practice together through fun challenges and activities.

4. Cool Down – Review skills and finish the session with confidence.

Session formats may be adjusted due to ice maintenance (flood schedules) or enrollment.

 

 

Missed a Class?

 

If your skater is unable to attend a session, a make-up class may be available if space permits. Requests must be submitted by email to the club. Make-up classes must be completed during the season you are missing a class in.  You can not do make-up classes in seasons you are not registered for.

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Why Choose CanSkate?

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• Skate Canada's nationally recognized learn-to-skate program

• Certified professional coaches

• Small group instruction with fun learning stations

• Progress tracked through six achievement stages

• Great preparation for hockey, figure skating, ringette, and recreational skating

• A positive, encouraging environment where every skater can succeed