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.
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