Learn to Skate

• Skaters must wear a CSA-Approved Hockey Helmet - skaters will not be allowed on the ice with any other type of helmet.

• Skaters must wear gloves/mittens for safety.

• Remember to sharpen your skates!

• Arrive early and check in at the Learn to Skate table. This is usually a very busy time often resulting in a line up for tag collection.

• Collect your name tag from the table.

• Proceed to the benches in the arena to put on your skates.

• Clip your name tag onto your zipper pull or pocket.

• Skaters then wait at the rink door until they are welcomed onto the ice by a coach or Program Assistant (PA).

• Parents MUST stay in the arena. Parents are welcome to watch their children from the stadium seats, or from the viewing area of the lobby. Parents are NOT allowed in the penalty box or on the ice under any circumstances.

• During the first few lessons your child may be moved between groups. We continually assess the skaters so that they are with children of like abilities.

• At the end of the lesson, collect your child from the same spot you dropped them off.

• Nametags should be collected on the ice prior to the end of the session, but if your child still has their name tag, please return it to the Learn to Skate table.

Please come PREPARED!

Find a complete list of approved skates here.

Find a complete list of other required equipment here.

• Skaters MUST wear a CSA-approved hockey helmet-skaters will not be allowed on the ice with any other type of helmet.

• Skaters MUST wear gloves/mittens for safety.

• Water-resistant bottoms are highly recommended.

• Avoid items like scarves, dangling coat belts, or sweaters with long drawstrings as they can be a hazard on the ice.

The information below has been taken directly from the Skate Ontario Helmet Use Policy.

Skate Canada Helmet Use

On July 1, 2011 Skate Canada implemented a Helmet Use policy. This policy was implemented as a proactive safety measure to help protect members in the early stages of the CanSkate program that are learning how to skate. Skate Canada believes it is an appropriate time to implement such a policy to help prevent future injuries to its members that are learning how to skate. In the development of the policy Skate Canada consulted various groups of individuals including parents, and the policy was approved by the Skate Canada Board of Directors earlier in 2011. Skate Canada is proud of its CanSkate program, the best learn-to-skate program in Canada, and we will continue to develop policies and programming that create a better and safer learn-to-skate experience for our skaters. If you would like more information on helmet use and injury prevention we recommend you visit Think First.

How should the hockey helmet fit?

A hockey helmet should fit snug to prevent any shifting and maximize protection. Make sure the chinstrap can be adjusted so it gently makes contact under the chin when fastened.  For an adjustable helmet, open it to the largest setting and gradually begin to downsize the helmet until a comfortably snug fit is achieved. The helmet should rest on the head so that the rim is one finger width above the eyebrow and making contact with the top of your head.  Although most helmets are lined with protective foam, some helmets will feel better than others. Try on different brands of helmets for fit and comfort.  All CSA certified helmets have a sticker indicating their certification.

How can I identify a hockey helmet that is CSA approved? Where will the logo appear on the hockey helmet?

The CSA approved logo will be found on the back of the hockey helmet affixed to the outer shell of the helmet. For more information about CSA standards visit www.csa-international.org.

Why only hockey helmets?

Hockey helmets are designed to help protect against head injuries occurring on ice, whether from a fall or collision. A bicycle helmet, for example, is designed to protect against head injuries should a fall occur while riding a bicycle. It is important to ensure that when a skater is on the ice, they are protected with equipment designed for their sport or activity.

Are face masks required as well?

Face masks are not mandatory; however young skaters may benefit from the added protection.

Are used hockey helmets acceptable?

Hockey helmets and face protectors sold in Canada must meet safety standards set by the Canadian Standards Association (CSA). If the CSA sticker is not present, throw the product away. Hockey helmets normally last for about three to five years. Hockey helmets must not be used if previously subjected to a major impact or if older than five years or if showing visible signs of damage or if parts are missing. Hockey helmets must have labelling with the date of manufacture and have a chin strap. It is important that the helmet fit properly in order to ensure proper protection.

Can a parent sign a waiver absolving the club from any liability and allow their child to participate without a helmet?

No. The requirement to wear a helmet is a Skate Canada Policy and all clubs and members must abide by our policies. Therefore in order to participate in the CanSkate program all skaters who have not achieved Stage 5 in the CanSkate program or who lack good balance and control must wear a CSA approved hockey helmet while on the ice.

Why has up to and including Stage 5 been selected as the benchmark for helmet use?

• Skaters who lack good control/balance when skating forward, backward and have difficulty stopping, as well as maneuvering around obstacles on the ice are at a higher risk of being unable to control a fall, regardless of their age. 

• The CanSkate program has been developed to introduce basic skating skills to beginners in a safe and sequential manner. The learning progressions leading to and included in Stage 5 allow skaters to gain the necessary skills (balance, agility, and control) required to safely participate on the ice. While it may be likely that many Stage 5 skaters can skate reasonably well, ice surfaces can be very unpredictable and there is always a risk of falling, no matter what stage a skater is at. CanSkaters participate in a group environment with other skaters on the ice of different levels who may fall and cause other skaters to fall.

How do I know when my child can move from PreCanskate to Canskate?

If your child has already completed a PreCanskate session and can steadily stand on the ice, that is a good indicator your child is ready for CanSkate.

Do you have other questions like where to buy skates, how to know if they fit, or how often to sharpen them?

Please visit the FAQ section of our website here.