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