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| Guide 4 Golf > Golf Articles > Family Tips > Teaching Kids Golf |
Teaching Kids Golf
If you have a passion for golf, it's natural to want to introduce your children to the game. You need to remember however that children don't generally have the attenton span or physical strength of adults, and take that into account.
The most important rule when introducing kids to golf, is that you need to keep it a fun activity. You certainly don't want to make it feel like a chore or homework! As a result, you probably don't want to spend too much time getting bogged down in complicated rules or boring golf jargon. Instead, let your kids having fun playing the game, introduce the details gradually, and your children can grow to love the game as much as you do.
You also don't want to make your children practice for hours on end. They will get bored and fed-up. Instead short practice sessions, perhaps of around 30 minutes, are much better, and more enjoyable for both you and your kid.
Likewise, you don't want to put too many obstacles in terms of requiring perfect technique in front of your child. It doesn't matter if their technique is not perfect - as long as they have fun playing the game. If they want to hit the ball hard, let them! All you need to do is show them a basic grip, right hand under left hand, and to keep their feet on the floor during their follow-through.
The best way to start playing is games involving chipping and putting. This allows your child to get the feel of golf club and ball. Then, as your child progresses, you can start trying contests and games. All the time as you do this, it's important to encourage your child. Praise your child's shots and swings, and when they use correct methods and techniques - and don't critize, don't dwell on their mistakes, nor put too much emphasis on competition and winning. That way, you will avoid your child getting frustrated, and make golf into an enjoyable activity for them.
One area that you should however teach your child from the start is golf etiquette. Just as you teach your child good table manners, you should teach them good golf manners. Teach them not to talk and to stand still when someone else is swinging. Teach them not to walk in front of somebody who is swinging. And teach them not to walk in front or through someone else's line.
Your child will progress in golf at his or her own pace. There is no need to force it, and certainly no need to force your child to play golf. Instead let their interest in the game develop naturally, and respond to your child when they want to learn more.
At some stage you may wish to think about purchasing a set of golf clubs for your child. You can purchase golf clubs specially made for children, but if you're on a tight budget, a used women's set of clubs may work just as well. Remember also, you don't need to start with a full set: a 3 wood, 6 iron, 9 iron, and a putter, are all you need to start.
Some children may become very interested in golf. At this point, you might want to consider golf lessons or golf camp for children. If you do decide to get your child a golf instructor, make sure they are focused on teaching children, and that you have seen them working with children, before you commit to them.
In summary, using these techniques, and by using encouragement rather than pressue, you can involve your child in golf. Keeping it fun, not only helps make golf into a more enjoyable family activity, but also may help nuture a lifelong interest in golf in your child.
