CANSKATE PROGRAM INFORMATION
CanSkate, Skate Canada’s flagship program is
one of the most sought-after skating programs
in Canada. CanSkate was developed by experts
to teach the fundamentals of skating in a
progressive manner. Designed for beginners
of all ages, the focus is on fun, participation
and basic skill development. Participants earn
ribbons and badges as skills are mastered.
Skaters are taught in a group lesson format
by Skate Canada professional coaches and
supported by trained program assistants.
CanSkate is the foundational and feeder
program for all other Skate Canada club and
community ice sport programs.
The CanSkate learning environment is enhanced
through fun, music and colourful teaching aids
and props along with praise and feedback from
coaches. This unique intro-to-ice environment is
designed to stimulate and maintain interest and
enthusiasm among skaters, allowing participants
to gain the physical competency and confidence
to remain active for life!
CANSKATE PROGRAM OBJECTIVES
• To provide participants and families with
a safe, welcoming and inclusive first
experience to the sport of skating
• To develop skating and motor skills through
natural learning phases (introduction,
acquisition, retention/mastery)
• To use skill progression and repetition
throughout the stages to introduce physical
literacy and establish quality basic skating
skills
• To foster personal achievements and
satisfaction through skill acquisition, reward
and recognition
• To evoke an interest in life-long participation
in skating
PROGRAM STRUCTURE AND AWARDS
The CanSkate program curriculum is organized
into six progressive stages of learning. Each
stage is broken down into three Fundamental
Areas:
• Balance: Concentrating on forward skills,
pushing technique, and edges
• Control: Concentrating on backwards skills,
stopping and speed elements
• Agility: Concentrating on turning and
jumping skills
The awards consist of:
• Three Fundamental Area ribbons for each
stage
• Six stage badges
To pass a stage badge skaters must achieve all
Fundamental Area ribbons (Balance, Control
and Agility) from the corresponding stage. The
skill requirements for each Fundamental Area
are indicated on the report card