If you simply can’t get your kids out of the house on the weekends and are worried about them getting lazy, don’t fret. In no time, they will not only step away from the screens but also engage in a fun and beneficial sport—golfing! If you’re wondering how to teach your kids golf and how to get them to love the game, here’s a little guide that will get your children hooked.
Get down to their level
Most kids are super used to being told what to do by people taller than they are, no matter if at school, at daycare or at home. Over time, they will either grow to dislike that sort of talk or view all those encounters as same and simply ignore the instructions even though you might be trying to help them. So, one of the best ways to instruct your little golfer is to get down to their level and make eye contact while talking to them. You might get your knees a bit green with grass, but that’s something that will pay off in the long run. Your kid will appreciate the real attention. Also, try to start every game with a firm handshake. This will not only teach them to respect the game but also allow them to practice their grip.
Keep the game short
If your area doesn’t have a golf course that’s just for kids, there’s simply no reason why you can’t go to an adult course, even though it’s an 18-hole course. If you notice your kids are losing attention after the 9th hole, cut the game short and finish it while everyone is still having fun. Keeping things entertaining is key. There’s nothing worse than dragging your children around the course when they are tired or bored.
Find the right gear
If you try to give your child your old golf clubs, the chances are huge that they will find them too long, too heavy or too stiff. Mostly, the length is the biggest issue that leaves the swing stuck behind the ball. So, before you start the game, make sure you get the right gear for your kids. If you’re not really sure where to search, check out Hombre Golf Club where you can find all kinds of amazing reviews that will help you pick out everything from clubs to shoes and various gadgets. When you find the right gear, this will ensure your kid can get the most fun out of the game. Plus, they will always look the part in their proper golf attire (some might not find that fun, but other kids will love to dress up). Of course, as your child grows, their golf equipment will have to change, but what’s important is ‘now’—once your kids start taking golf seriously, they will be able to help you pick out the most practical and comfortable gear.
Keep it fun
While golf is very serious and prestigious to adults, kids don’t really care about all those things—for them, golf is just a new and fun activity to grasp. Kids don’t like things to be too complicated or they will lose interest quickly, so keep that in mind. So, make sure to keep things fun, light-hearted and encouraging. If your kid hits a shot that’s just ‘okay’, encourage the continuation of the game by shouting “What a great shot!” The more you play with your child, the more honest you can be. So, ease off the criticism, unless they are the next Tiger Woods or Michelle Wie.
Take a golf cart
While long walks around the course are the key element of golfing (this is what makes it a physically beneficial activity), kids will hate that part, especially the beginners. However, one thing they will certainly love is golf carts! So, be a good sport and get the golf cart from the start. You will be the star in your kids’ eyes and everything will be much more fun for them. Also, when your kids get tired or bored, you’ll be so glad you have a cart with you so you don’t have to face the long walk back with your moody children in tow.
Give them time
Anything in life needs practice. While kids are great at picking up sports when they are young, they still need plenty of time to get a grip of the rules, catch the details of the game and learn the ropes. So, make sure to give your children plenty of time to practice and fail. Maybe take them to your local course in the evening when things are not that crowded (you don’t want to hold up any groups behind you).
All in all, golf is a great activity fit for kids of all ages. It’s a great way to keep your kids fit, sharp and motivated to advance not only in sports but in life in general. So, grab your little ones and go have some fun!
