Pre-CanSkate and Parent and Tot programs
This program is for our newest skaters wanting to learn to skate and are generally ages 2-4.
Pre-Canskate: This program is for skaters who have very little skating experience - similar to Parent and Tot in skating skills and exercises - this program is without parents/guardians on the ice. Skaters are divided into groups in all CanSkate and Pre-CanSkate programs, based on a number of factors, including ability and age. A coach will take a small group of children and play skating games/skills to keep the children moving and engaged. Skaters will learn how to balance, move forward/backwards, the starting basics of stopping and turning in a circle, getting down and getting up unassisted etc. Once the skater passes the Pre-Can stages, they will move into the Canskate program. The children are evaluated a couple times during the program. Progressions are communicated with the parent/guardian. It is normal for skaters to take several months to pass Pre-Can. A positive skating experience is very important at this stage!
These skaters will build a solid foundation for future development in figure skating, hockey, ringette or speed skating. This, combined with lots of great incentives, makes this a fun way for these 2 - 4 year olds to get going on skates! Skating Aids are permitted on this session (Pre-Canskate and Parent and Tot only), skaters must supply their own. Please label it.
Parent and Tot: This program is perfect for children who need their parent's (or a guardian) support. Directed by an experienced Skate Canada Coach, the group will be guided through different skating skills/games to support learning how to balance, move forward and backwards, stopping, and more! This program is also for kids who can skate but may need a more adaptive approach or smaller group at their own pace. Small circuits and props will be used to keep the children engaged. Skating Aids are permitted on this session (Pre-Canskate and Parent and Tot only), skaters must supply their own. Please label it.
CANSKATE
This Program is for skaters who have passed our Pre-CanSkate level and who can stand and balance unassisted.
Canskate: Skate Canada's Canskate program is a nationally recognized learn-to-skate curriculum designed for beginners of all ages, including children, teens, adults, and adaptive skaters. It focuses on the essential "ABC" skills of skating—Agility, Balance, and Control—to build a strong foundation for recreational skating, hockey, ringette, figure skating, or speed skating.
- Fast-paced circuits: Sessions use a dynamic format that keeps skaters moving 90% of the time using fast-paced stations with props and music.
- Certified instruction: Classes are led by professional coaches certified by the National Coaching Certification Program (NCCP) and Skate Canada certifications, supported by trained program assistants.
- Group environment: Taught in groups with a strong coach-to-student ratio (typically around 1:10 or better)
- Three Fundamental Areas: Divided into Agility (turning, jumping, spinning), Balance (forward skating, sculling, gliding, edges), and Control (backward skating, stopping, speed).
- Six Progressive Stages: Skaters move through six badge levels and earn fundamental movement ribbons as they master specific skills. Skaters are evaluated a couple times each season and moved up to the next level once specific skills are acquired.
- **all participants must wear a helmet until they have passed stage 5.
ARC: Allandale Recreation Centre // EB: East Bayfield Community Centre // PHCC: Peggy Hill Community Centre
Skaters require an annual Skate Canada Membership because it provides mandatory liability and accident insurance coverage and gives the skater a legal license to participate on Skate Canada-sanctioned ice across the country. Skaters receive a permanent, unique Skate Canada Number that tracks their test levels, earned badges, and program progress for life. A dedicated portion of the fee funds Safe Sport Programs, ensuring rigorous background checks, abuse prevention training, and a safe learning environment. You only pay this fee once per skating year. The membership runs exactly from September 1 to August 31 of the following year.
All skaters are required to wear appropriate skates and helmet. Snow pants and warm mitts are strongly recommended. Watch this video for more info or read the graphic below: Proper Equipment Video
Each program runs 8-10 weeks (Oct-Dec & Jan-Mar), once a week. Depending on the day of the week chosen, there are No-Skate days due to hockey tournaments etc. Full price details and dates will be given once registration opens Aug 31. Our programs are run by professional coaches certified by the National Coaching Certification Program (NCCP) as well as Skate Canada Certifications, supported by trained program assistants.
We look forward to skating with you!
