CanSkate Stage 2-5

Equipment: Helmets are mandatory up to Stage 5. It is also helpful to have warm mittens and wear leggings or track pants. Skates with laces provide a better fit and will promote progress for the skater. 

This learn-to-skate program teaches the basics of forward and backward skating, stopping, turning, spinning and jumping to all disciplines of skating (hockey, ringette, recreation or figure skating). Skaters are grouped by ability and age and are evaluated regularly as they progress through the 6 stages at their own pace. The successful completion at each stage is recognized with the awarding of a badge. Report cards are provided at mid-way and at the completion of the session.

Program Structure

The CanSkate program curriculum is organized into three Fundamental Areas, divided into six stages of learning. The Fundamental areas are:

· BALANCE: Concentrating on most forward skills, pushing technique and edges.

· CONTROL: Concentrating on most backwards skills, stopping and speed elements.

· AGILITY: Concentrating on most turning and jumping skills.

The awards consist of:

· Three Fundamental Area ribbons for each stage

· Six stage badges

To receive a 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 skater’s report card.