 Please WaitPRESCHOOL Learn to Skate The Preschool program is a fun, recreational learn-to-skate program that is designed especially for children aged 3 to 5. Children must be 3 years old by the end of December of the current year to be eligible.
This program is co-hosted with the Town of Newmarket Parks, Recreation and Culture department and registration must be done through the Town. The Preschool program, available weekdays, is designed to accommodate children who are in either half-day kindergarten or alternate day kindergarten. The Preschool program runs for an 8-week period, with one 8-week session before Christmas, one 8-week session after Christmas, and one 8-week session in the Spring session. The Preschool program teaches skating skills through the use of simple instruction, music, games and toys. The goal of the program is to help skaters develop balance and coordination on ice with an emphasis on having fun. Skaters can earn badges, ribbons, stickers and certificates. Skaters are taught in colour-coded groups divided according to age. Each class runs for 30 minutes once per week. A professional coach is assigned to each group for the full 30 minutes. The Preschool program will have groups of up to six skaters per coach. Parents are not allowed on the ice but must stay in the arena while the child is on the ice. There is a heated viewing area for parents. Children at this level will typically learn to how to stand up on skates, glide forward, and glide backward. It is expected that a five year old will progress quicker than a three year old, although this is not always the case. CSA-approved hockey helmets are mandatory for the child to be allowed on the ice. Most children wear snowpants or splash pants to remain warm and dry. Waterproof mitts or gloves are required. |
