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Golf for Kids

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Golf for Kids - Why Is Golf a Super Sport for Children?

You probably realize already that golf is one of few sports that a child can play for a lifetime. But have you considered other reasons to share this game with your child? Golf builds character, physical fitness, people skills, family relationships with parental involvement, and a love and appreciation for beauties of nature.

I know of no other game that has so much to offer your child and your family. It is my hope that the information provided here will introduce you to the benefits of Junior Golf.

The Family That Plays Together

Golf as a Family Sport

golf for the familyThe game of golf provides a healthy outlet for the family. In our family, father, son, grandson can all enjoy the game together. Of course, in many families, mom, dad, sons, and daughters all play golf and enjoy the time together. Family Golf Tournaments are tons of fun!

Our son, Randy, began playing golf before he was six years old and our grandchildren have followed in those footsteps. As a youngster, Randy not only played golf with his dad, but he enjoyed golf with his friends. As a teenager, he successfully played on the high school golf team, winning the South Carolina Junior Tournament one year. In college, he played on his college team. And now as a father and a businessman, he plays golf with his son, his dad, and his business associates and friends.

The Junior Golf Guide says "Studies have shown that children who have interacted with their parents in the early stages of life form a life-long bond." We agree.

Golf Requires Practice and Discipline

Golf Requires PracticeGolf requires practice and golfers seem to enjoy every moment on the driving range or the putting green.

A child working on his golf game is not in front of a television - he is outside, having fun, and improving his skills.

Junior Golf Tip

Buy clubs designed for junior golfers. This is better for your child than cut-down adult clubs.

Junior Golf Information on the Web

Junior Golf programs are available in almost every community. Visit these sites for more information.

Also don't miss The Junior Golf Guide
The First Tee Home Page
A youth development program dedicated to providing young people of all backgrounds an opportunity to develop, through golf and character education, life-enhancing values such as honesty, integrity and sportsmanship.
The First Tee of Fort Smith, Arkansas
Visit the homepage of The First Tee of Fort Smith, Arkansas - a good example of how First Tee works to build character through golf.
AJGA - American Junior Golf Association
Junior Golf news, events, schedules
Junior Links
Junior Links provides a search for junior programs in your area. Don't miss this site!
Why Teach Golf to Kids?
Nancy Berkley's excellent article about family golf. Step by step directions for making golf a part of your family life. Nancy says, "Start laying the foundation now for those special rounds of golf with your family. Grow together in the game and find your space on the golf course."

Junior Golf Tip

Contact your local golf professional at a golf shop or driving range. Junior Clinics are usually available at a reasonable price. Private lessons are $15-20 an hour in most locations.

Golf Etiquette

Young Junior GolferYou have probably heard the phrase "Golf is a gentleman's game." Indeed it is. The rules of golf actually apply to life, too. As children learn the rules of golf, they learn:
  • Safety for themselves and other players - Be sure your opponent is at least 10 yards away from you before you swing.

  • Respect for the game, themselves and their opponents -Golfers are rarely rude or loud.

  • Good Sportsmanship and Integrity - In golf, players keep their own score. If you cheat, you are only cheating yourself and your game will never get better.

  • Care of the golf course - Raking bunkers and fixing ball marks on greens

    Junior Golf Tip

    For a 6-10 year old, a 3 wood, 5, 7 and 9 iron and a putter are basic equipment.
    After 10 years old, evaluate interest and ability before purchasing a complete set.

    Golf Encourages Mutual Respect

    A parent-child golf team invites mutual respect and conversation. When a parent spends hours with a child enjoying an activity like golf, the bond between them grows.

    If you need an excuse to spend some happy hours with your child, golf may just be the answer.

    Let the professionals teach you and your child. Don't try to be the teacher. Encourage, but don't push. Teach your child to enjoy the game.

    Ethan Chung (6 years old)

    4th in 2008 Junior World Championships

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    Joan4

    When I married a golf professional almost 50 years ago, I did not expect that the game would have such a strong impact on our lives. As a non-golfer,... more »

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