Starting a new sport can be daunting- especially when you’re a kid. Golf is one of those sports- the intimidation might be grave, but the pay-off is greater! Junior golf is very popular and helps instil discipline as well as help define a solid platform to help create an excellent golfer. Teaching your child golf might be a difficult task, especially when they are quite young. Read our fundamentals for teaching your little ones to play the wonderful game of golf.
Let them set the pace
We all want our children to learn to play the game the correct way -especially when it comes to the fundamentals. That being said, nothing deters a kid faster than getting frustrated with technique. When they get frustrated, even with something as small as missing the hole during putting practice, they can be put off the game of golf forever. As golfers, we tend to have a certain way we lay the game- which might be difficult for children to execute. Don’t expect a perfect swing on the first try. Let them lead during your practice time at the driving range and make sure to have a lot of patience. Remember that sport must be fun and not something they dread.
Maximise the time at the range
Like any new sport- practice makes perfect. When it comes to children however, practice doesn’t always mean they will pick up the kills as fast as adults. Think of it this way; as an adult novice, you have various skill sets that will help you with your golfing game- you might have been a keen hockey player, been an excellent mini golfer in your hey-day, or have taken part in some form of sport or team activity, which has instilled in you some competitive spirit, patience, or at least a fundamental knowledge of how fast you can pace yourself to learn a new skill set. Kids don’t have these skills, which means they won’t necessarily be golf prodigies within a few months.
Keep your practices at the driving range focused when teaching golf to your junior golfer. Concentrate on the fundamentals rather than specifically practising trouble areas, as most kids will have difficulty with a bunch of basics. Try heading to the range after work or early- when attendance is slightly lower. This means kids can fully practice their game without feeling embarrassed for not being 100% on point. It will also be much safer if they want to chase the ball after a hit.
Join the classes
Children learn better when surrounded with peers. Let your kids join a junior class so they can experience golf in a less intimidating environment. They will enjoy learning the game much more if they get to interact with kids who are also trying get to know the game. Classes will help them communicate better, learn the skills faster, and of course help them appreciate the fun and love of golf!
Bring your Junior Golfer to The Golf Village
The Golf Village feature various masterclasses for beginners, which is presented by PGA Professionals. Sign-up for a membership and have your young star playing in no time!
Each Golf Village has it’s own restuarant, offering parents a convenient place to wait while their little golfer practices. The Tygervalley Golf Village also has a mini golf course, so you can bring the whole family for a fun day out while your little one is upskilling.
