Frequently Asked Questions

All of our coaches are trained and certified through Skate Canada’s National Coaching Certification Program (NCCP). This program includes extensive training in skating techniques, skill progressions, safety, and working with skaters of all ages and abilities. Coaches complete both in-class and on-ice training, evaluations, ethics training, and participate in ongoing professional development to stay up to date with coaching standards. To stay in good standing with Skate Canada, coaches also have police background checks, are First-Aid trained, and CPR certified. 

JOIN OUR BOARD OF DIRECTORS! Skate Harrow can only run because of the support of volunteers. You can help at the CanSkate table by assisting with name tags and welcoming families, lend a hand in setting up and running fundraisers, or help by making costumes and props for our annual carnival. The best way to do this is joining the board. We can never have enough help, so don't be shy, reach out to skateharrow@live.ca for more information. 

For our CanSkate and Pre CanSkate sessions, the number one most important things to bring are a CSA approved helmet and skates that fit their feet. We strongly recommend either figure skates or hockey skates that are the correct size for your skater. Plastic moulded boots do NOT properly support skater's feet and will inhibit your skaters abilities. A used pair of hockey or figure skates will be significantly better for your child. If you have more specific questions about skates and helmets, take a look under the "CanSkate" section of our website for more information or contact us at skateharrow@live.ca. We recommend skaters wear layers instead of bulky jackets. Also, movement is important for young skaters, so it is encouraged that skaters do not wear things like snow pants, but instead splash pants or warm jogging pants. Skaters should also have gloves or mittens, although wearing hats is discouraged as they are difficult to adjust under helmets and can be uncomfortable. For skaters with long hair we recommend that it is tied back. 

Our regular season runs from September to March for both StarSkate and CanSkate at the Harrow Arena on Tuesdays and Thursdays. We also run a spring season out of the Essex Arena during April and May on Tuesdays. 

We know it can be tempting to hop on the ice with your child, but for everyone’s safety, only our trained coaches and Program Assistants are allowed on the ice with skaters. They are here to guide, support, and help skaters learn at their own pace. If your child isn’t yet able to skate independently for the duration of the session, that’s completely okay! It means they just need more time before starting Pre CanSkate. We recommend spending time on public skating sessions or practicing in skates off-ice to help build their confidence. Once your child is ready to participate on their own, they will be able to fully benefit from the coaching and enjoy the structured learning environment.