|
Golf Basics for Kids
When teaching golf to
kids, FUN is the name of the game. Throw in
all the technical jargon at the beginning
and you will effectively kill a child's
desire to learn. Allow a child to “play”
golf for enjoyment, and he’ll become a
life-long convert of the game!
Hours of practice will
only overwhelm a child, so just allow him or
her to practice a little bit at first, say
30 minutes. This will keep motivation for
practice high.
And it's okay to let
them start by hitting the ball hard. That's
part of the fun! Don't worry about their
grip right off the bat. Just have them keep
the right hand under the left and then swing
away!
I’d also make sure the
child keeps his or her feet on the ground
while following through.
Now, if you want to buy
a child's set of clubs, that's fine, but
you're likely to do just as well with a used
set of women's clubs. They're lighter and
nice for kids. All you need is a women's 9
iron, a 6 iron, 3-wood and a putter.
Let your child start
out with little chipping and putting games.
This play will help him or her get the feel
for the club and the ball. Kids can bounce
the ball off the face of a wedge and try
hitting leaves or twigs.
Little contests and
games keep motivation high. Avoid pressure
or competition early on. You want your
child to enjoy the game and want to play it
every chance they get, not end up so
confused and unfocused that they can't
figure out what to do and just quit in
frustration.
If you’re encouraging,
your child will love for you to play
alongside of them. Just don't start
demanding wins and emphasizing competition,
or you'll pop the enthusiasm really fast.
Children will move
along as they're ready. Letting them
progress at their own pace prevents future
burnout. Never make a child play the game,
unless he wants to. The game should be fun,
and a simple joy. Laugh and have a blast
yourself!
If your child's
interest increases, you might consider golf
camp or some private lessons with someone
experienced in teaching children. If you do
seek a personal instructor for your child,
watch how the person teaches first. You
really want an encouraging person with a
knack for teaching kids.
Also, please remember
to teach your child the etiquette of golf.
Little things are very important, like…
Don’t talk while someone else is swinging.
Don’t step in front of someone while they’re
swinging. Stand still. Don’t walk in front
of someone else’s line or through line.
Finally, never
criticize. Praise their shots and swings.
Encourage them to correct certain moves,
but don't dwell on what was done
incorrectly.
If you concentrate on
the most important aspects of golf – the
enjoyment and the basics – you may end up
with a child who rivals you on the range and
who enjoys a lifelong love for the game.
<<< previous
article |
contents
|
next article >>> |
