Learn to Skate (ages 2+)

Parent on the ice – Canskate is a dynamic learn-to-skate program that focuses on fun, participation and basic skill development. Based on Skate Canada’s long term athlete development (LTAD) principles, CanSkate centers on physical literacy and the fundamental skills needed to take part in any ice sport or to skate as a recreational activity. The Parent & Tot program is for the young skater who isn’t emotionally ready to skate without a parent or caregiver on the ice. Please note the Parent & Tot session is 30 minutes to help the skater to eventually graduate into our 45 minute CanSkate program.

CanSkate is a dynamic learn-to-skate program that focuses on fun, participation and basic skill development. Based on Sport Canada’s long term athlete development (LTAD) principles, CanSkate centers on physical literacy and the fundamental skills needed to take part in any ice sport or to skate as a recreational activity.

Who is it for?
For beginners of all ages, children or adults, as well as for those wishing to improve their basic skills whether their focus be for figure skating, hockey, speed skating, ringette or just skating for fun. They will learn the fundamental skills needed to take part in any ice sport or to skate as a recreational activity.

Who teaches it?
NCCP-trained professional coaches, assisted by trained program assistants.

What will you learn?
A complete series of balance, control and agility skills taught in six stages of learning that pertain to hockey, ringette, speed skating and figure skating as well as general recreational skating. CanSkate uses nationally-tested and proven curriculum and delivery methods that guarantee skater success in developing stronger basic skills and developing them faster.

What can you expect?
Action, movement and fun! Lessons are given in a group format with a coach-to-student ratio of a maximum 1:10. Skaters progress at their own rate and coaches make sessions active using teaching aids, upbeat music and a wide variety of activities that create a motivational environment and promote learning. Badges, ribbons and other incentives are used to benchmark skaters’ progress and reward effort and participation.

There are six ‘stage’ badges to complete in the CanSkate program. Each stage incorporates skills focusing on the fundamental movements of Agility, Balance and Control, the A B Cs of skating.