Slip, Slide, Glide

Skating can be a fun, affordable and accessible winter family sport, but teaching a toddler to skate requires the patience of a saint and a strong back. We’ve got some tips to ensure your family starts this oh-so-Canadian winter tradition off on the right foot (pun intended).
Take a Lesson
Top of our list for lessons is UBC’s Doug Mitchell Thunderbird Sport Centre’s Arena with its Learn to Skate program that starts at three years of age. For children with a little bit of skating experience, they offer Ice Mice lessons that are sure to spark a love for the game of hockey in your little one. Online registration is now available for their spring programs (starting March 1).

Burnaby 8 Rinks also offers learn-to-skate programs through Canlan Ice Sports. Group lessons start at age four, and of note are their popular parent and tot lessons for two to five year-olds.