This is Skate Canada's famous CanSkate program. Group instruction is conducted by fully certified Skate Canada Coaches with the assistance of accomplished amateur skaters who are Skate Canada associate members.

Skaters are grouped by age and ability and taught skills appropriate to their level. Each child is evaluated by our Professionals on an ongoing basis and awarded badges when specific skills are mastered. We have found that this is a strong incentive for the children in the program to work hard and it gives young skaters a tangible source of pride in their accomplishments. Skaters are encouraged to sew their badges onto their skating jackets. Beginners from age three to five, who are not attending school, will benefit from our Pre-school program, which employs smaller groups more suitable for children not used to group situations.

As every child is a unique individual it would be inappropriate to make a hard and fast rule. Generally, the youngest age that is appropriate for this program is four years. There is no maximum age for this program, and we do have the occasional adult enter the program with good results. Since this program is based on group instruction, the child must be able to work in the group instruction environment. Generally, children who have not yet attended school are invited to attend our Pre-School Session.

Yes. Normally, this child will spend a fair bit of time during the first weeks sitting on the ice. The first thing we teach them is how to get up. After a couple of weeks, most of these children will be on their feet most of the time and well able to participate in one of our beginners groups. As they gain proficiency, they will earn their first proficiency badges and be placed in a group working at their level.

Yes. There will always be exceptional individuals who should be encouraged to perform at their level. We have had excellent experiences with such children. If, however, after a few weeks an evaluation by one of our professional coaches determines that he or she really isnt ready for this program, she could transfer to our Pre-School Program.

For the beginning levels, the same fundamentals apply whether the skater aspires to playing Hockey, Speed Skating, Figure Skating, Synchronized Skating or just having fun on the local pond! The program concentrates on efficient stroking techniques (forward and backward), strong edges, turning techniques, stopping, and two foot jumps. These develop the power and agility required in all skating sports. The skater who completes the CanSkate program will be well prepared to enter Figure Skating, Hockey, or Speed Skating, and Hockey Parents and Coaches have told us that our graduates are in demand! What equipment does my child need?

Warm comfortable clothing (a few light layers, rather than a heavy winter coat, light nylon pants over comfortable pants and mittens or gloves) which does not restrict your childs normal range of motion or vision is essential. Helmets are required for beginners. The type of helmet that works best is one, which can be adjusted to fit the childs head. This type is usually of multi piece construction, held together with special screws to allow adjustment. Face protection is optional but also recommended for beginners. Bicycle helmets are not recommended.

Skates (Hockey or Figure Skates) should be properly fitted. Skates, which are too small, will result in cold toes and extreme discomfort. Skates, which are too large, will not give adequate support. Skates should be properly sharpened as needed and guards must be worn to protect the sharpening when worn off the ice.