Registration Updates
Registration for the August 2025 Summer Session is available to current Skate Canada members.
2025/26 Season Registration opens in August 2025.
LEARN TO SKATE WITH CANSKATE
Ready to Register?
We’d love to see you on the ice!
If registration isn’t open yet, please check the Registration Info Page for timelines and program updates.
Pre-CanSkate
Who It’s For
- Pre-CanSkate is for children aged 3 and up who are brand new to skating or still learning basic movement on the ice. It’s ideal for skaters who are not yet ready for the full CanSkate program. This includes those working on standing independently, learning to balance, and becoming comfortable moving forward.
Program Structure
- Pre-CanSkate offers a smaller coach-to-skater ratio to ensure individual attention and support. Skaters participate in short, fun-based circuits that focus on developing confidence and comfort on the ice. Sessions are led by NCCP-certified coaches with help from trained Program Assistants.
Key Skills Developed
- Standing up and balancing on skates
- Marching forward and gliding
- Falling down and getting up safely
- Beginning to move in various directions
Progress Recognition
- Skaters are introduced to the Balance, Control, and Agility ribbons and may start earning them as they demonstrate readiness. They also receive a Skate Canada progress card at the end of the season.
Equipment
Skaters need:
-
Properly fitted skates (preferably hockey or figure skates — avoid adjustable plastic skates)
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CSA-approved hockey helmet
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Warm clothing that allows movement
Click here for full equipment info
Next Steps
- Once skaters can balance and move forward independently, they are ready to transition into Stage 1 of CanSkate. After completing all six CanSkate stages, they can move on to Advanced CanSkate & STAR Prep to continue developing their skills.
CanSkate
Who It’s For
- CanSkate is designed for skaters aged 5 and up (or younger skaters who have mastered Pre-CanSkate skills). It’s ideal for children who are ready to skate independently and are working on developing their balance, control, and agility.
Program Structure
- CanSkate is a stage-based program that includes six progressive levels. Skaters are grouped by age and ability and rotate through fun, fast-paced circuits. Sessions are led by NCCP-certified coaches with support from trained Program Assistants. Each lesson includes warm-up, skill rotations, and cool-down — all set to music and delivered in an upbeat, engaging atmosphere.
Key Skills Developed
- Forward and backward skating
- One-foot glides and stops
- Turns and edges
- Speed and agility techniques
- Basic spins and introductory jumps (higher stages)
Progress Recognition
- Skaters work toward earning three ribbons — Balance, Control, and Agility — at each stage. When all three ribbons are completed, they receive a Stage Badge (Stages 1 through 6). A Skate Canada progress report card is also provided at the end of the season.
Equipment
Skaters need:- Properly fitted skates (hockey or figure skates; no adjustable plastic skates)
- CSA-approved hockey helmet
- Gloves and layered, flexible clothing that allows movement
Click here for full equipment info
Next Steps
- Once skaters complete Stage 6, they are ready to move into Advanced CanSkate & STAR Prep, where they begin to focus on more advanced skills and prepare for figure skating, speed skating, hockey, or ringette pathways.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Which program should I pick for my child?
A: If your child is brand new to skating, still learning to stand or move on the ice, or is under 5, start with Pre-CanSkate.
If your child can skate forward on their own, balance independently, and follow instructions, they’re ready for CanSkate.
Don’t worry coaches assess each skater at the start of the season and will make sure they’re placed in the right group.
Q: My child has never skated before. Which program should we register for?
A: If your child is new to skating and still learning to stand, balance, or move on the ice, Pre-CanSkate is the best place to start. If they can already move forward on their own, they may be ready for CanSkate. Our coaches will assess each skater and ensure they are placed in the right group.
A: If your child is brand new to skating, still learning to stand or move on the ice, or is under 5, start with Pre-CanSkate.
If your child can skate forward on their own, balance independently, and follow instructions, they’re ready for CanSkate.
Don’t worry coaches assess each skater at the start of the season and will make sure they’re placed in the right group.
Q: My child has never skated before. Which program should we register for?
A: If your child is new to skating and still learning to stand, balance, or move on the ice, Pre-CanSkate is the best place to start. If they can already move forward on their own, they may be ready for CanSkate. Our coaches will assess each skater and ensure they are placed in the right group.
Q: Do parents go on the ice with their child?
A: No. Skaters are supported by certified coaches and trained Program Assistants. Coaches are also First Aid certified. Parents can watch from the stands or designated viewing areas.
Q: What should my child wear to stay warm?
A: Dress your child in layers that allow movement like long underwear, fleece, or a winter jacket and snow pants (especially for Pre-CanSkaters). Gloves or mittens are also required.
A: No. Skaters are supported by certified coaches and trained Program Assistants. Coaches are also First Aid certified. Parents can watch from the stands or designated viewing areas.
Q: What should my child wear to stay warm?
A: Dress your child in layers that allow movement like long underwear, fleece, or a winter jacket and snow pants (especially for Pre-CanSkaters). Gloves or mittens are also required.