Figure Skating Programs for Kids in Montreal

Gliding Gracefully: Figure Skating for Montreal Kids

Figure skating combines athleticism, artistry, and grace in a way few other sports can match. Montreal's extensive indoor ice infrastructure means kids can skate year-round, and the city's clubs produce some of Canada's finest young figure skaters. Whether your child dreams of the Olympics or just wants to glide confidently, there's a program for every ambition.

Learn to Skate Programs

Skate Canada's CanSkate Program is the standard entry point for figure skating in Canada. Most Montreal clubs offer CanSkate for children aged 4 and up. The program uses a fun, progressive curriculum with badges and rewards to keep kids motivated. Sessions typically run 30-45 minutes once or twice weekly, costing $100-200 per 10-12 week session. Key CanSkate locations:

• CPA de Montréal — one of the city's largest clubs with multiple ice times
• Club de patinage artistique de Saint-Laurent — well-run program with experienced coaches
• Patinage artistique de Verdun — community-oriented with a welcoming atmosphere

Intermediate and Competitive Programs

Once kids complete CanSkate, they can progress to STARSkate — Skate Canada's development program covering freestyle, dance, and skills. This is where figure skating gets serious (but still fun). Skaters work with coaches on jumps, spins, footwork, and performance. Costs increase significantly at this level: $300-600 per session plus private lesson fees ($20-40 per 15 minutes).

CPA Laval has one of Quebec's strongest competitive programs, producing provincial and national medalists. Their coaching team includes former competitive skaters with high-performance training expertise.

CPA de Boucherville is known for its excellent coaching staff and supportive competitive environment. They regularly host competitions, giving local skaters valuable experience.

What to Know Before Starting

Equipment:

• Skates: Proper figure skates (not hockey skates) are essential even for beginners. New starter skates run $80-150. Avoid the $30 skates from department stores — they lack ankle support and will frustrate your child. Many clubs have used-skate sales in fall
• Clothing: Layers that allow movement. Avoid jeans (they restrict and get cold when wet). Skating dresses and pants come later for competitive skaters
• Helmet: Required for CanSkate; most clubs provide loaner helmets
• Gloves: Essential — falls happen, and ice burns hurt

Age considerations:

• Ages 3-4: Some clubs offer parent-tot skating classes
• Ages 4-6: CanSkate (ideal starting age for most children)
• Ages 7-9: Still a great time to start; kids progress quickly at this age
• Ages 10+: Later starters can still enjoy recreational figure skating; competitive goals become harder but not impossible

The Parent Experience

Be prepared for early mornings and cold arenas. Competitive figure skating families spend significant time at the rink, but the community is warm and supportive. Bring blankets, hot chocolate, and a good book. The sight of your child landing their first waltz jump makes every cold morning worthwhile.

Costs Overview

Level	Cost per Season	Additional Fees
CanSkate	$100-200	Skate rental: $50-75/season
STARSkate	$300-600	Private lessons: $20-40/15 min
Competitive	$1,000-3,000+	Costumes, travel, competition fees

Check out more sports programs for kids in Montreal on FamiliQC.