Pre-CanSkate (Adult & Tot):
TINY FEET, BIG DREAMS
Our Pre-CanSkate program is perfect for younger skaters with little to no skating experience who feel most comfortable with an adult on the ice.
Program Overview: In this introductory program, skaters will be taught by an NCCP-certified coach, who will guide them in learning the basic skating skills necessary to feel comfortable on the ice. The goal is to help these young skaters progress into a CanSkate group with confidence and ease.
Program Highlights:
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Certified Instruction: Skaters receive guidance from experienced NCCP-certified coaches who are skilled in teaching young learners the fundamentals of skating.
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Building Confidence: The program focuses on creating a supportive and encouraging environment where skaters can build their confidence on the ice.
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Ongoing Transitions: Skaters are continuously assessed, and those who demonstrate the required skills, confidence, and independence may transition to a CanSkate group before the end of the skating season.
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Award and Progression: Upon completion of Pre-CanSkate, skaters are awarded a ribbon as a mark of their achievement. Moving into our CanSkate program is highly recommended for further development.
Program Benefits:
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Tailored Learning: Lessons are adapted to meet the individual needs of each skater, ensuring they receive the appropriate level of instruction and support.
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Safety and Comfort: The presence of an adult on the ice helps young skaters feel safe and secure, allowing them to focus on learning and having fun.
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Foundation for Growth: Pre-CanSkate lays the groundwork for future skating success, helping skaters develop the essential skills needed to advance through the CanSkate program and beyond.
The Pre-CanSkate program is an ideal starting point for young skaters, offering them a gentle introduction to the world of skating while building their confidence and abilities. Join us and watch your child take their first steps towards a lifelong love of skating! ⛸️✨
Equipment:
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CSA-approved hockey helmet – no bicycle helmets
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Sharpened skates – hockey or figure skates, whichever is preferred
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Figure Skate Sharpening: Getting figure skates sharpened at a local figure skate-specific sharpener is recommended. Most retail sharpeners are not trained in the specifics of figure skate blades. Please discuss with your club coach for further details. The prices at the local sharpener recommended by club coaches are $15 for most blades and $18 for stainless steel blades.
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Hockey Skate Sharpening: For hockey skates go to any local sharpener (retail or private). The price at many local pro shops is $10 - $15.
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When To Sharpen Skates: It is recommended to get skates sharpened approximately every 15-20 hours of skating.
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Mittens or gloves
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Warm clothing – long pants and a warm sweater or jacket
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Soft cloth or towel for drying skates and blades to prevent rust
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Skate guards – hard guards are recommended for walking back and forth to the ice surface, as well as soft guards/soakers for keeping blades protected and rust-free between skating sessions in your skate bag
For examples of equipment, how to wear it, and recommendations refer to our CanSkate Equipment playlist!
Pre-CanSkate Achievements
Skills Acquired |
Balance on two feet |
Fall down and get up |
Move forward |
Move backward |
March on the spot |
Make snow |
Jump on the spot |
2-foot twist on the spot |
To watch examples of how to perform the skills check out the Pre-CanSkate Skills on the Skate Canada Development Video Library