What is CanSkate? 

CanSkate is Skate Canada's flagship learn-to-skate program for beginners aged three and up, including Adults. CanSkate is taught by Skate Canada Certified Coaches accompanied by our volunteer program assistants. It emphasizes fun and continuous movement in a group lesson format. CanSkate is the place to start for all skaters regardless of whether you would like to continue in figure skating, hockey, ringette, or recreational skating.

Do you teach Adult Beginners? 

Yes! CanSkate Adult is specifically modified to better assist mature (18+) skaters learn how to skate. More room, less distraction, and tailored exercises to see you advance at your own pace. It's not just CanSkate, all of our skating levels run with adjacent Adult specific programs. 

Adults are welcome to register in any program they meet requirements for, not just 'Adult' programming. 
Only 18+ individuals may register for 'Adult' specific programs. 

What is required of Parent / Guardians? 

Remain on-site at the rink for the duration of each lesson. If you need to leave, you MUST provide another adult to be responsible for your child. There is always a risk of injury and it is imperative that a responsible adult be present at all times in case of an emergency.

Assist your child/children with putting on their equipment.

Observe from the heated bleachers. Parents are not allow to be in the players boxes or at the gates to the ice arena. This blocks access to the arena and it is also a distraction to the coaches and skaters in their lessons.

 Provide off-ice supervision of your child/children.

 If you see your child going off the ice during a lesson, it is your responsibility to go and assist him/her. The coaches cannot leave their on ice students unattended.

In the event of an emergency, it is imperative that a guardian for each child be present at all times.

PARENT/GUARDIANS REMAIN RESPONSIBLE FOR THEIR CHILD/CHILDREN WHILE AT THE ICE ARENA. DO NOT LEAVE YOUR CHILDREN UNATTENDED

What comes after CanSkate?

PreStar is the next level of skating. The minimum entry requirement for PreStar is to have passed Canskate Stage 6 and/or have been recommended by the Program Director.

On request, skaters new to the club will be evaluated for entry. 

What should I wear to skating lessons? 

CanSkate: 
All skaters need to have their own skates and their own CSA approved hockey helmet. Rentals are NOT available. Please dress skaters in warm layers they can move in. Snowsuits or snow pants are recommended for beginners. All skaters should wear mittens or gloves.

Appropriate Skating Attire for PreStar and above includes:

- A skating dress or skirt with warm tights  
- Stretch leggings  
- Straight-legged sport pants
- Fitted Sweaters
- Sports jackets
- Nylon socks
- Gloves/mitts are necessary
 
No loose fitting clothing or heavy winter coats. Form-fitting athletic sweaters/jackets preferred, as this enables the coach to see proper body positions. 

Long hair must be tied back.

Make sure you are also prepared for OFF ICE: 

- Athletic shoes (runners)
- Cotton/Athletic Socks
- Stretch activewear clothing
- Water bottle

What type of Skates do I need? 

Figure skates or hockey skates are acceptable for CanSkate.

Figure Skates are mandatory for all other levels. 

Please invest in a good quality and well fitting pair of skates from a qualified skate store. Skates should be very close fitting and the ankles should be upright and well supported. Please do not buy skates with plenty of "room to grow".

Visit our Figure Skates page to read more about the types of figure skates best suited for each level, where to buy, and how often to sharpen. 

How do I enlist a Skate Canada Coach for Private Lessons? 

Please do not approach any coach directly to arrange lessons.

Requests are to be directed to the office administrator at admin@kitsfsc.ca, to be followed up by the coaching staff. The Program Director has the discretion to make the final decision regarding private lesson assignments.

Club Coaches are not permitted to book private lessons without the knowledge of the Administrator and Program Director.

Very important: Please refrain from promoting your skaters’ coach or coaches to other parents.

The Kitsilano FSC is committed to promoting a happy, healthy skating environment for all.

Do you offer any financial assistance? 

Kits FSC is dedicated to supporting both our skaters and coaches reach excellence. If you or your household are struggling financially, visit our financial assistance page for options. 

Still Have Questions? 

Contact our friendly Administrator at:   admin@kitsfsc.ca