Learn to Skate class levels

Whether you want to learn the basics so you can enjoy the occasional rink visit with family and friends, or to level up your skating skills to move into hockey or figure skating, Learn to Skate classes are the first step to success for all ages! Learn from the best at Canal Park Ice Rink!

ICEKATEERS – aGES 2 1/2 TO 4 YEARS

This play-filled class for independent preschoolers introduces children to the ice in a safe and creative environment. Instruction begins off ice and moves gradually through ice and snow play without skates, to moving across the ice on skates. Tots age 4 or older who are already capable of standing on and moving across the ice independently should register for youth beginner class.

Balance Buddies – Ages 2 ½ to 4 years with a caregiver

Preschoolers who aren’t quite ready to go it alone will enjoy this caregiver-participation style introduction to skating. Caregivers will assist on and off the ice, first in street shoes, then on skates. Caregivers who need to enhance their own comfort level on the ice should register for Find Your Feet (see Adult Programs) prior to registering for Balance Buddies. 30 minute sessions.

Skating FUNdamentals – ages 4 and up

These classes focus on the fundamentals of the sport – with an emphasis on FUN! 

Our friendly, experienced professional instructors:

  • Group skating students by age and ability level to ensure appropriate lessons
  • Use toys, games and challenges to engage young skating students
  • Understand the unique needs and goals of adult skating students
  • Work patiently with all students to conquer fear and increase confidence on the ice.

Our open format allows skaters to move at their own pace through the foundational skills, spending as much time as needed at each level. Skaters are grouped by age and skill/experience level.

FIRST STEPs – ages 4 TO 6

This is where the skating fun starts for preschoolers – in a safe and engaging setting! This level is for kids with no prior skating experience and focuses on developing the coordination and body awareness necessary to move across the ice. Our youngest skaters will not only learn the basics of skating, but also build confidence in themselves and their abilities.

NEXT STEPs – ages 5 TO 6

Preschoolers with some skating experience and/or prior skating instruction are ready to take their next steps towards mastering the basics! This class is designed for young skaters who already feel comfortable and confident marching forward, gliding, turning and stopping, and are ready to learn different ways of moving forwards and backwards with even more confidence and power.

YOUTH BEGINNER – ages 7 TO 12

School age kids new to ice skating start here! Designed for new skaters with little to no prior skating experience or instruction. After an off-ice safety orientation, class heads directly to the ice, where skaters will learn how to fall safely and get up properly, to march across the ice, to turn and to stop. As these foundational skills are mastered, skaters may move on to Youth Intermediate to level up their skating!

YOUTH INTERMEDIATE – ages 7 TO 12

After mastering the basics in the Youth Beginner level, skaters wanting to add more speed, power and/or flair to their skating can move into this intermediate level class. This level is designed to help skaters build the skills necessary for pursuing more advanced skating — whether that’s figure skating, ice hockey, speed skating or simply for the love of skating!

Find Your Feet

New Beginner Class for Adults (age 13+)

Always wanted to learn to ice skate, but too nervous to try?

We’re excited to offer the “Find Your Feet” program — just for adults! These yoga-based classes are designed to introduce the physics and body dynamics involved in ice skating in a low-pressure, supportive environment. Classes begin with off-ice warm-ups and proceed onto the ice as participants are ready. Participate in as many sessions as you need to feel ready to take to the ice with confidence and ease!

Adult Beginner/Intermediate (Mixed Level)

Designed for the beginner and advancing adult skater, this class promotes physical fitness and improves balance and coordination while introducing proper skating techniques. This  program is for anyone looking to include ice skating as an enjoyable part of a fit and healthy lifestyle. 45 minutes

ICED COFFEE CLUB

On-ice social hour

Adult skaters can enjoy an extra hour of skating before the public session on Wednesday mornings from 11:00 a.m. to noon. Join old friends and make some new ones while enjoying your own music and complimentary coffee.

Wednesdays, 11:00 a.m.