CANSKATE
CanSkate is Canada’s only learn-to-skate program for all ages. It focuses on fun, participation and basic skill development in a group lesson format. The technical skills include a focus on teaching and mastering strong basic skills earlier to prepare skaters for all ice sports – hockey, ringette, speed skating and figure skating.
Skills have been categorized into the following fundamental areas: BALANCE, CONTROL and AGILITY. Children are placed into groups according to ability and taught by a Certified Coach and assisted by qualified CanSkate Program Assistants
. On-ice delivery focuses on continuous movement and emphasizes the use of newer and more dynamic group teaching concepts including the Fast Track, Fun Zone and station rotation, all of which has been proven to increase practice opportunities and improve the rate of skill acquisition among skaters. More visual aids and music are used to create a fun, stimulating and welcoming environment. Skaters will receive report cards at the end of each session. There is a new series of award ribbons in addition to the Stage 1 – 6 badges.
REQUIRED SKATING EQUIPMENT
Skates
Skaters who are in CanSkate may use hockey or figure skates. We advise the purchase of skate boots with laces, not moulded 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 your skater’s skates are sharpened regularly, at least once per season. You can also help your skater by ensuring their skate are comfortable and fit properly. Toes should be able to wiggle slightly and the heels should be able to lift only slightly as well. When purchasing skates, please ensure the skates are sharpened.
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 the family has any ideas of the skater being a figure skater, they should start with a pick!
CSA-Approved Hockey Helmet
All skaters in our Learn to Skate programs are required to have a CSA approved hockey helmet that is no more than 5 years old. There is a date in the CSA sticker at the back of the helmet to watch if you are not buying this item new. CanSkaters are required to wear CSA approved helmets until they have earned Stage 5. We recommend that skaters have a cage on their helmet.
Mittens
Skaters are required to wear mittens or gloves while on the ice.
Skate Guards
Skate guards are not mandatory, but we recommend them as they will protect the skates when walking on concrete.
Layered Clothing
The rinks can get very cold, so skaters are encouraged to wear warm layered clothing. We recommend that beginner skaters wear snow pants. Please make sure that clothing isn't restricting, so that skaters can still move freely on the ice.