CanSkate
CanSkate is Canada’s only learn-to-skate program for all ages. It is delivered in a group lesson format in a fun and dynamic learning environment. The program focuses on mastering strong basic skating skills earlier, to better prepare skaters for the all ice sports such as hockey, ringette, speed skating and figure skating.
We will be offering a French CanSkate class starting in January 2023 on Tuesday! Check the schedule for more details!
Class Format
CanSkate classes consist of 45 minutes of group instruction on the ice. Children are placed into groups according to ability and are taught by a Professional Coach and assisted by qualified CanSkate Program Assistants. The class focuses on continuous movement, and teaching tools such as the Fast Track, Fun Zone and Station Rotation are used to keep the instruction dynamic and interesting. Visual aids and music are also used to create a fun, stimulating and welcoming environment.
Skills have been categorized into the following fundamental areas: BALANCE, CONTROL and AGILITY. Skaters will receive ribbons on each of these areas each stage as they progress, and then will earn a badge once all requirements for the stage are achieved. Report cards will be handed out on the last day of classes.
Please note that if your skater has never been on skates before, it is recommended that you register them in PreCanskate. PreCanskate is for all ages of children and designed to have skaters feel confident in the basics of skating. If you have questions on which program to register your child, please contact the CanSkate Coordinator at canskatecoordinator@figure8skating.ca for advice.
Skating Equipment
SKATES – Skaters who are in PreCanSkate, CanSkate or Adult Skate may use hockey or figure skates. We advise the purchase of skates with laces, not molded plastic skates with buckles. Skates that have an adjustable fit are also not recommended. Skates should be tied snugly with laces tucked away. At the end of every skating session, please wipe your skater’s blades dry. Please also ensure that skates are sharpened regularly, at least once per season. You can also help your skater by ensuring their skates are comfortable and fit properly. Toes should be able to wiggle slightly and the heels should be able to lift only slightly as well. We would recommend purchasing skates and helmets from United Cycle or Sport Chek. When purchasing skates, please ensure the skates are sharpened for the first time.
Hockey vs Figure Skates? Either option is fine. There is no one option that is more difficult to first learn on. However, switching from hockey to figure can be a hard transition. So if your skater is interested in figure skating, they should start with figure skates!
HELMET – All skaters in learn to skate programs are required to have a CSA approved helmet that is no more than 5 years old. Please refer to the sticker on the back of the helmet to see when the helmet expires. Skaters are required to wear CSA approved helmets until they have earned CanSkate Stage 5.
Registration
