Introducing Kids to Golf: Five Tips for Kids on the Course
Hopefully, you have used the tips on our website to find affordable equipment, lessons, and places to play. When your kiddo is ready for an actual round of golf, here are five tips for making it a great experience.
Par 3, Yippie! The shorter yardage of a par 3 course offers newer players the opportunity to work on basic skills while having the experience of playing an actual round of golf. An added benefit is that playing a par 3 course is less expensive and for young golfers with shorter attention spans, it requires less of a time commitment.
Start with 9, but 3 is fine. When playing on a regulation course with kids who are learning to play golf, it’s best to start with 9 holes, but be flexible. Some kids don’t have the attention span or interest in playing a full 9 holes. If your little one has had it after three holes, that’s perfectly fine! They will build up their stamina over time.
Cart, cart baby! Speaking of stamina… Until you know your child has their golf legs, a cart rental is always a good idea. This also makes it easier for you to keep the pace of play on the course. Not to mention the carts have cup holders and lots of places to stash all the snacks you will need to bring!
Evening is everything: Take advantage of late summer sunsets in Denver to book an early evening tee time with your kids. The players booking the latest tee times tend to be much more chill than the early bird golfers and might be more patient with kids on the course. Many golf courses have discounted twilight tee times so this can be a more affordable option.
Teamwork Makes the Dream Work: Explain to your kids that you are going to play “Team Golf” which just means you are going to play a modified scramble format. Here’s an idea of how this can work, but you can find what works best for your kids. You will both tee off. Determine which was the best (usually closest to the hole) ball. Then you both hit your next shots from that best ball repeating this process. If your team doesn’t make it to the green in 4 shots, pick up the ball and proceed to the green so you can experience putting. When you get to the green, drop the balls at a point that is within striking distance of the hole. If your team doesn’t sink the ball in 3 putts, pick it up. This will allow you to keep up with the pace of play but still have the experience of playing a round of golf. Keep your score collectively and let them pick a silly name for your team! Many kids like to keep the score card, and yes, even the little pencil they give you as a souvenir.
In summary, golf is a great way for parents and kids to spend time together outdoors and away from technology. It’s important that their early experiences with golf are fun so keep it light and make some great memories together!
