Teaching Golf to Children

(The following is an article that I wrote recently for Factoidz.com.  For more information on this studio and freelance writing, visit www.factoidz.com.) Children can learn to play golf at a very young age. Teaching golf is a team effort, especially for younger students who might require added attention to detail than an older golfer might require. With the correct mindset, drill techniques and teaching plan, any child can learn to play golf without the need for expensive lessons or even trips to the golf course.

Putting and Chipping

Because not much space is needed to practice putting and chipping, these drills are simple and easily transferred to your back yard or even your living room. Set up a small target, such as a glass or cup, for your child to putt or chip a golf ball into. Try setting three golf balls at various distances from the target and have your child hit each ball. This exercise will instill the “target mentality” needed to play golf and is appropriate for children who might not be strong enough to hit at a target hundreds of yards away. A bucket or practice net in your back yard also can serve as a target for chipping or pitching.

Irons and Driving

Practicing iron or woods shots might be more difficult for the child, especially if he is using a hand-me-down set of clubs from an older player. As such, a child will benefit greatly from having his own set of clubs measured to fit his height. If a trip to the driving range is not possible, you can use practice or Whiffle golf balls at home when practicing longer shots. These reduced-flight balls are appropriate for home use when practicing long shots since they will not fly as far as a regular ball. Beginners also will be able to make mistakes with practice balls as they will not damage a window or your home.

Include Friends

No matter the task at hand, your child might get bored while practicing. By including a few of your child’s friends in the practice sessions, your child might enjoy the experience even more. You also can formulate each drill into a competitive game for your child and her friends for added enjoyment. If your child is uncomfortable with competition, you can instead practice alongside your child for encouragement.

Considerations

As your child grows older, replace his golf clubs with longer, better-fitting options. Gauge your child’s understanding of the game as the years go by so you can make his practice sessions more advanced. Repetition is important for any drill, especially in the beginning of a child’s learning experience.

Sources:

Junior Golf Guide: Choosing the Right Golf Lessons for Kids; http://www.junior-golf-guide.com/golf-lessons-for-kids.html

AllStar Activities: Golf for Kids; http://www.allstaractivities.com/sports/golf/golf-lessons.htm