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Lyle Slovick Instructor, Level I Affiliate Member United States Golf Teachers Federation Good Golf For Life.com ©2008 |
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Golf and Kids I think the youngest age most children should start taking lessons is 9 or 10. By this age they have the attention span and desire required to learn the game and to play the game with focus. Having said that, I also believe any child at any age should be encouraged to swing a cut down club or chip and putt, whether it be in the backyard or the golf course. * If your child wants to seriously play golf, buy a them a starter set with a wood, an iron and a putter. That's all they need, and are much better than cut down adult clubs. Click here for an idea on sets for 6-10 year olds * Take your kids to the driving range with you, although be mindful of other golfers and make sure your kids are old enough to behave themselves and not get too loud, although it's great to see the enthusiasm young kids can display when hitting a golf ball. By the same token, don't let adults treat kids as nuisances. My one suggestion is that if the range is crowded, please share a stall with your child to free up others for older players. * If your child really wants to go to the golf course with you, take them once in awhile. With a golf car, they can ride along with you, and if it isn't crowded, stop at the hundred yard marker and let them hit up to the green. Have a soda afterwards, and let them sink a few short putts on the practice green. They will feel like a real golfer. * Most kids have natural, if not controlled, swings. Let them take their swings at the ball and don't correct flaws, initially. Let them have some fun. * Emphasize safety and etiquette. I've seen too many youngsters take practice swings with no notice of another person standing right next to them, and this can be dicey. Set down the ground rules for acceptable behavior at the driving range and on the course, but try not to be bossy at the same time. * If they really show an enthusiasm for the game and not a passing interest, then take them for lessons with an instructor who is good with kids. * Finally, look into a
First Tee program in your area. The
World Golf Foundation created The First Tee in November of 1997 as a way to
bring golf to youngsters that otherwise would not be exposed to the game and its
positive values.
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