Private lessons for CanSkate skaters begin the week after Thanksgiving weekend. The one hour CanSkate sessions are broken down into different components, ending with a 10 min cool down period. During these last 10 min coaches will be available to teach private lessons. Private lessons are a good option if your skater is having difficultly with a particular skill or just needs to master a few more skills to move to the next level. The cool down sessions will still be coach led sessions so skaters not opting for private lessons will still get the full lesson of skating instruction.

 

If you would like your child to have private lessons, you will need to contact a coach of your choice. Read about our coaches on the Coaches Showcase (next to the bulletin board at the arena) or on our website www.silverblades.ca. Coaches are unique and as varied as the individuals they teach. Involve your skater in this decision. Observe the coach you would like to hire during a session. This will give you an idea of his or her technique/methods and rapport with the skaters. Short list your choices to 1 – 2 coaches then meet with them individually to assess their style/philosophy and also understand their rates. It is important to find the right combination of expertise and personality in your child’s coach in order for the young skater to enjoy his or her instruction and to work cooperatively with the coach to reach common goals. There are also practical considerations such as coach availability that will impact your decision.

 

Coach fees are typically charged on a 15-minute interval and range from $12 - $18 (coaches will adjust their rates for the 10 minute lesson time). Some coaches offer semi-private lessons, a shared cost arrangement that can help parents to manage costs. It is important to acknowledge that the Silver Blades’ Board has no role in the coaching arrangements or dealings between skaters, parents and coaches. This is a private matter between families and the coach.