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’s 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 or just skating for fun.
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.
What do you need to participate?
All you need are skates, a CSA-approved hockey helmet, long pants, mittens, warm sweater or jacket. Dress in layers – it will get warm!
PRE-CANSKATE
This unparented program is designed for children 3 - 5 years old who have no skating experience. Once the children have progressed through the Pre-CanSkate level, they will begin working on the CanSkate Stages and Badges 1- 6. PreCanSkate is NOT a Pre-requisite for CanSkate.
CANSKATE
The Canskate Program is designed for children 6 years of age and older who are learning to skate OR who want to improve their basic skating skills.
Students are taught the fundamentals of skating and progress through a National Badge system of 1 through 6 levels. The skater is encouraged and assisted in a smooth progression through all levels. This development continues towards advancement into the STARSkate Development program.
All Skate Canada member clubs and skating schools who offer a CanSkate program must ensure all CanSkate and Adult CanSkate participants up to and including Stage 6 must wear a CSA approved hockey helmet while on the ice.
It is mandatory for all participants to wear a proper fitting helmet and skates along with warm mittens or gloves for all on-ice sessions.
PreSTAR
This program is designed for skaters who have passed CanSkate Stage 4 and wish to enter our STARSkate Figure Skating development program, upon coach recommendation.
