Connecting Our Community Through Skating​

​PreCanSkate – Learn to Skate for Beginners

PreCanSkate is for beginner skaters aged 3 and up. This is not a parent-and-tot program, and parents are not permitted on the ice for any reason.

Program Overview
PreCanSkate is a fun, introductory learn-to-skate program designed for children who have never skated before or who are still learning to balance and move on the ice. Each 30-minute group session focuses on essential skills including:

• Balancing and moving forward
• Skating backward and stopping
  
• Jumping, and turning
  

Lessons are led by professional NCCP-certified coaches, supported by trained volunteer Program Assistants. Skaters learn through music, colorful teaching aids, hockey sticks, bubbles, games, and hula hoops to keep the experience engaging and motivating. Ribbons and other incentives are awarded as skaters achieve fundamental skills. The coach-to-student ratio is a maximum of 1:8.

What to Wear
Helmet: All skaters must wear a CSA-approved hockey helmet (cage optional).
Clothing: Mittens, splash or snow pants, layered clothing, and a warm sweater or coat.

Choosing Skates
Quality skates are the most important piece of equipment.

Look for:

• Good ankle support and proper fit
• Hockey skates for beginners or reputable figure skates (e.g., Figure Skating Boutique, Jackson brand from Canadian Tire)
  
• Toe picks on figure skates must remain intact
  

Avoid:

• Skates from hardware stores
• Plastic buckle skates (they may open on falls and limit ankle movement)
  
• Adjustable skates (they make balancing more difficult)
  

Our coaches can assist with skate fitting. Important: Sharpen skates before first use to avoid slipping and falling.

Helmet Fit Guide

• Helmet should fit snugly with no shifting
• Chinstrap should be adjusted to fit gently under the chin
  
• The rim should be one finger width above the eyebrow
  
• Try different brands for comfort
  
• Look for the CSA certification sticker
  

Only CSA-approved hockey helmets are permitted. Other helmet types (e.g., bicycle helmets) are not suitable for ice use. Face masks are optional but recommended for younger skaters. Used helmets are acceptable if they meet CSA standards, are in good condition, and have not sustained damage.

Safety Policy
Per Skate Canada policy, all skaters who have not passed CanSkate Stage 5 or who lack strong balance and control must wear a CSA-approved hockey helmet while on the ice.

Faster Progression
Skaters progress more quickly when attending multiple sessions per week. EGSC offers discounted rates for multiple-day registrations. Contact us for pricing details.

Questions? Contact our CANSkate Program Director at programdirector@egskatingclub.com