How early should my child begin learning and playing golf? What is the recommended age for starting golf lessons?

When should I start my child in golf?
Even though the answer depends on the child, the answer is the same for everyone.  The child should start when they WANT to start.  However, sometimes in a parent’s enthusiasm, or with the dream that their little “Tiger” will be able to support them in their old age, a parent becomes a “Pusher” more than an “Encourager”.

In the past, the feeling was that children should wait until they are more physically developed, but the consensus now is that the interest factor is more important than the physical factor.  Again, and this cannot be overemphasized, the parent should be sensitive to the child’s interest and provide opportunities without pushing.

There is much to support this new thinking of starting children at an early age.  We have become accustomed to seeing children riding their bicycle at a very early age.  We are encouraged to teach babies to swim.  Organized soccer leagues start with children’s teams for the Under-5 age.  Nevertheless, just as we don’t expect these four-year-olds to play soccer with any degree of proficiency for several years, we should not expect our little golfers to be ready for competition for several years.  They should just HAVE FUN.

Where should my child start?
If you were to start your child in soccer, you would help them at home, of course, but you would also look for a place that could teach your little soccer player the game, the rules, and the etiquette of the game in a group setting.  Golf is much the same.  Children’s group clinics and group lessons are designed to introduce children to the fundamentals of golf in a setting that is less intimidating.  In addition, youth clinics and group lessons, if taught by a professional, will not only teach them how to hit the ball, but will also help to instill in them the honor, respect and sportsmanship required in this unique sport.

Through all of this, ALWAYS keep in mind the FUN FACTOR.

What concerns should I have?
Concern #1 – Correct Size Clubs
Today, several companies make quality sets that are specifically designed for young golfers, making it much easier to purchase a set that is suited for their size.  YES!  THEY WILL OUTGROW THESE CLUBS!  Just as they outgrow almost everything you buy for them.  Your child will walk better in shoes that properly fit and they will play better with clubs that properly fit.  The better they play, the more fun they will have.  Again, remember the FUN FACTOR.

Concern #2 – Correct Golf Balls
Some instructors recommend that the child start with some sort of “Practice” balls to increase the ease of flight and to decrease the amount of damage.  However, eventually your little golfer will want to use “Real” golf balls.  Some parents find that their child really likes balls that are the child’s favorite color.  Other children take to those with images of cartoon characters on them.  Some parents have helped increase their child’s interest by having the little golfer’s name imprinted on their golf balls.  Our local three-par course encourages their students of all ages to use the course’s range balls whenever they are around the water hazards.  Remember the FUN FACTOR.

Concern #3 – What do I show them?
Professionals almost agree on these three things, while remembering the FUN FACTOR.

1.      Show them how to use the baseball, or ten-finger grip.  This will give your child a feeling of security and strength and allow their little hands to learn confidence in controlling the club.
2.      Give them SIMPLE instructions regarding how to AIM the ball with their stance and ball position.  The key word here is SIMPLE.
3.      As they take their practice swings, remember two things:  First, encourage them to remain in balance as they swing back and through.  Second, remember it is much more fun to hit a ball than to practice the swing without a ball.   Remember the FUN FACTOR.

Good luck, and who knows, you may end up with a new golfing partner!  Did I mention the FUN FACTOR?

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