Notes for parents new to CanSkate

CanSkate Organization:

  • All of our CanSkate sessions offer instruction for all levels of ability; the only difference between CanSkate 1 and CanSkate 2 is age.
  • Groups within each CanSkate class are divided based on age and/or ability. Depending on numbers, there could be 2 or 3 groups at approximately the same level.
  • Program Assistants (PAs) are young club skaters who have been trained to assist the professional club coaches on CanSkate sessions. They are identified by their red jackets. 
  • Typical class schedule:
    • 5 minutes warm up, choreographed to music
    • 30 minutes in lesson group time, which are done on circuits 
    • 5minutes cool down

Reminders for parents:

  • All CanSkate participants must wear a CSA-approved hockey helmet. There can be no exceptions; if your child does not have a proper helmet, they will not be able to attend their session.
  • Please be patient for the first few lessons. It takes time to assess skaters and organize groups; your child will likely be moved around between groups several times to find the best fit.
  • Parents must sit in the stands; they are not permitted in the players' bench area where the skaters enter and exit the ice.
  • PAs are not professional coaches; their role is to assist on the CanSkate sessions. Any questions about the program or your child's progress should be directed to the club coaches (not PAs), after the session is over, or email Canskate Director Caroline Mackeen at canskate@wrsssc.com.
  • Report cards will be handed out in December and March.

See our CanSkate page for more information about the Skate Canada CanSkate program.