Skating starts here.
What is CanSkate?
CanSkate is Canada’s premier learn-to-skate program, designed by Skate Canada for skaters of all ages and goals. Whether your child is interested in figure skating, hockey, ringette, speed skating, or simply wants to build confidence on the ice, CanSkate provides a strong foundation. Lessons are delivered in a fun, safe, and inclusive environment by certified coaches using proven techniques that focus on long-term skill development.
Who Can Register?
CanSkate is open to beginners aged four and up. It’s perfect for children with little or no experience, as well as newcomers to Canada and athletes with a disability (AWAD). Skaters are grouped by skill level and coached by NCCP-certified instructors with support from trained Program Assistants.
Required Equipment
All skaters must wear a CSA-approved hockey helmet that has not expired—no bike or ski helmets are allowed. A properly fitting helmet should sit no more than one inch above the brow line, have straps forming a “V” around the ears, and allow no more than one finger space under the chin.
To ensure clear visibility, any excess hair should be pulled back and out of the skater’s face. While face masks are not mandatory, younger skaters may benefit from the added protection. Please read our Helmet Policy for further details.
Skaters should wear properly fitted lace-up figure or hockey skates. We do not recommend "adjustable" or "expandable" skates, as they typically lack the proper support and secure fit required for effective skill development.
Skaters should dress in warm, layered clothing that allows for movement but is not bulky or restrictive. For safety, ensure nothing is hanging down or dragging on the ice—avoid long scarves or pants that are too long. Snow pants are recommended for CanSkate as they help cushion falls and keep skaters dry.
All skaters must wear waterproof mittens or gloves (hockey gloves are not permitted) to keep their hands warm and protected. Knit gloves are discouraged as they stick to the ice when wet.
Please note that elbow pads, knee pads, and other hockey gear are not allowed.
Program Structure
The CanSkate program is divided into six progressive stages that focus on developing balance, control, and agility. At each level, skaters build skills through high-energy lessons that incorporate circuits, challenges, and continuous movement. Skaters earn badges, ribbons, and report cards as they progress. The program runs for 20 weeks, from October through March, and includes a Holiday Fun Skate, Dress Rehearsal, and a year-end Carnival.
At DFSC, the final two stages of CanSkate are completed within our Intro to STARSkate (ITS) program, which helps prepare advancing skaters for the next phase of their skating journey.
Payment Options & Financial Support
A payment installment option is available at the time of registration. If your family requires alternate payment arrangements, please contact us at didsburyfsc@gmail.com to discuss further.
Financial assistance may be available through national programs such as Canadian Tire’s Jumpstart Individual Child Grants or KidSport Alberta. These programs help families facing financial barriers by covering part or all of the cost of registration fees for children’s sports and recreational activities.
Volunteer Commitment & Fundraising Requirements
As a non-profit club, DFSC relies on the support of its members to keep programs affordable and events running smoothly. Families with skaters in CanSkate are asked to contribute 5–10 hours of volunteer time per skater throughout the season. A $200 post-dated cheque is due on the first day of skating and will be returned once the volunteer commitment has been fulfilled. If a cheque is not received, a one-time payment authorization form will be required before your skater can step on the ice.
In addition, each skater will be issued one raffle ticket booklet as one of our annual fundraisers. The $100 cost of the booklet will be automatically added at registration. Families are welcome to sell the 10 included tickets (valued at $10 each) to recover the cost. This mandatory fundraiser helps support club operations, events, and ice time.
For full details, please visit our Fundraising Requirements and Volunteer Commitment Policy pages.
Schedule & Important Dates
Our CanSkate season runs from October to March, with 20 weeks of lessons in total.
Key dates include the Season Kick-Off Skate on September 29th, the Holiday Fun Skate on December 15th, and the Carnival on March 21st.
Classes may be canceled on holidays, or due to arena availability. For example, there will be no lessons on Thanksgiving Day (October 13, 2025). We encourage families to visit our Important Dates page for a complete overview of seasonal breaks and scheduling updates.
Important Note:
CanSkate parents are strongly encouraged to remain in the arena during lessons in case their skater needs assistance due to injury, illness, or a washroom break. Please note that coaches and Program Assistants (PAs) are not permitted to accompany skaters to the washroom.
Still Have Questions?
We’ve designed this page to give you everything you need to know before registering for CanSkate. If anything’s unclear, or you need help, don’t hesitate to reach out to us at didsburyfsc@gmail.com. We’re happy to help you get started with confidence.
