JUNIOR GOLF
Tips on how
to
get your child
started playing
the game of golf
Article prepared by US Golf Camps
www.usgolfcamps.com
The game of golf is experiencing a "boom" of new life as youth are discovering the excitement of a day at the course. New facilities that offer children affordable access to play the game are being constructed throughout the country and the world. How can parents attract their youngsters to play this "game for a lifetime?" (Tip: Do not show them old photos of Hale Irwin's plaid slacks.)
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Seriously, your son or daughter might approach you one day and express an interest in learning to play golf. You may have to work some to cultivate that interest in them, but it will be worth the effort because the qualities that golf embodies are the very same ones you want your children to have: respect, courtesy, honesty, diligence, and abundant expendable income.
One of the keys to getting your child interested in golf is finding a program that they enjoy participating in. Select a program that nurtures their interest and stresses having fun. A visit to juniorlinks.com is a way to find out what programs are available in your area. Other information sources may be your local recreation department or your local PGA Professional. Many schools also have golf programs and these are a great way for the serious junior golfer to develop his or her interest.
Ultimately, parents are the catalyst to the growth of their child's interest in golf. A visit to the driving range where your child and you can spend time together is an excellent way to get started. Invite some of your child's friends along so that they associate golf with FUN. Unless you are qualified to teach, don't worry too much about instructing your child. Just make sure that he or she gets an opportunity to hit some balls and enjoy the exercise. (Tip: It's always fun to try to hit the ball-shagging cart.)
Once a strong foundation has been developed, a visit to your local course or par-3 course is warranted. Try to play in non-peak hours so that your child is not subject to the pressures of pace of play requirements of a busy facility.
Children learn by imitation, so encourage watching a PGA or LPGA event on TV (just turn the volume down if Tiger's having a bad day). If you should have a tour event in your local area, go to the course. The crowds and excitement of big time golf are great magnets for a young person's imagination.
Many recreation departments and most public golf facilities offer junior programs (usually in the summer months). One advantage of utilizing these programs is the social interaction that your child experiences with the other children in the clinic. Kids learn that golf is a social game played by rules of conduct and proper etiquette.
For advanced juniors who show an interest, junior tournaments are a great way to test their skills. It is important that participation in tournaments is the child's idea. Access and encouragement are two important things that parents can provide to their children to help them learn and enjoy golf.
Any opinions expressed above are those of the writer and do not necessarily represent the views of the management. The information in this story was accurate at the time of publication. All contact information, directions and prices should be confirmed directly with the golf course or resort before making reservations and/or travel plans.
