Golf is fun and there is no better time to learn than now. Here are just a few benefits of getting kids out on the course:
GOLF IS FUN AND EDUCATIONAL
Fresh air, friends and fairways mean FUN. Many kids talk about the biggest yard they have ever seen while riding in the golf cart through the woods, and others are in awe of the deer meandering nearby. Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) are all involved in learning golf. Kids soon learn to be teachable, and as they experience both success and failure in the game of golf, their coach guides them to victory. Kids who take golf lessons develop an appetite to understand and be successful.
Golf is invigorating—hitting that great shot is thrilling, uplifting and mind-blowing, especially to a small child that may wonder how he/she made the ball go so far! Golf promotes self-reliance nurtured through good coaching, which inspires perseverance and confidence. Also, a golf coach teaches kids how to be on the alert, by explaining the safety policies daily. A nurturing and fun coach keeps the atmosphere light and interesting so the child can understand the process. Your child will enjoy age-appropriate equipment, videos, fun training aids, all included with the cost of the lesson.
FUNDAMENTALS FOR KIDS
It is a proud moment for a parent when a child plays their first song on an instrument, and golf is no different. How proud a parent is when a child learns the grip, stance, posture, alignment and what a golf swing feels like! We have the teaching tools to make this fun and easy. Friendly terms like alligator arms, hot dog in the bun and salute the general will become a part of your child’s vocabulary.
BEST WAYS TO GET KIDS ON THE COURSE
- Make your child’s golf adventures brief with a 1-hour lesson, and a lighthearted practice time with a parent or friend afterward.
- Invite a friend for company while your child takes a lesson.
- Carpooling parents can share transportation responsibilities.
- Brief visits to the practice area keep the learning process fresh and updated.
TIPS FOR GOLF COACHES AND PARENTS
1. Do not link self-worth and self-esteem to score.
2. Provide unconditional love to your golfer.
3. Develop the whole person, not just the golfer.
4. Let them be kids!
5. Focus on developing skills and outcomes will take care of themselves.
6. FUN must be included.
7. If you put too much pressure on them when you watch, or it’s too stressful to watch, don’t watch! Drop them off and let them play golf.
For opportunities to get kids on the course, contact:
Palmetto Dunes Golf Academy: 843-785-1138
First Tee of the Lowcountry: 843-686-2680
Written by Doug Weaver, a former PGA Touring Pro who was ranked the #2 Instructor in South Carolina by Golf Digest. He is the Director of Instruction at the Palmetto Dunes Golf Academy and leads “Where Does the Power Come From?” a complimentary golf clinic and exhibition on Mondays at 4 p.m. For details and reservations for golf clinics, classes, lessons and on-course instruction, call 843-785-1138, 800-827-3006 or visit www.palmettodunes.com.
