Introducing kids to the golf course

With the grass greening and spring in the air, there isn’t a more beautiful place to be than the golf course.

With the absence of team sports, going to the golf course may become your family’s outing of choice this summer. It’s a lot of fun, but being mindful of golf etiquette may have you a little nervous about bringing a small company.

I know I was feeling a bit nervous taking three kids with a combined age of 13 out to the driving range last week.

“Okay kids, so no yelling, hitting things with your clubs, we are going to pay and then go to the far end of the range. Got it!” I said, seeing the blank stares looking back at me. I felt the pre golf strategy meeting went sort of, rather well.

Truthfully the kids were really excited to be at the course. Not surprisingly the big draw is the power carts. They were a bit disappointed to see that going to the driving range does not mean riding in power carts.

When we got to the range I was really surprised just how many families were there with their pint size companions. This got me thinking of how a parent can introduce their kids to the sport, and not get kicked off the course, so I reached out to two friends who have done it.

When I first asked for advice both said loud and clear that first and foremost it has to be enjoyable for everyone.

“It has to be fun. If the kids play one hole and skip another, it isn’t a big deal. Just getting outside is an all around win,” said Breann Yurchak, mother of three.

Angela Doerksen, also a mom of three shared the same point of view. “Make sure it is fun for them. Let them hit some balls. Give them pointers on how to stand and hold the club. But let them swing away if they want.”

Next pick a family friendly course. With two five year olds and three year old in tow we were keen to find a nearby course without too much travel. Try finding a course that has a junior program with junior tees set up. Yurchak said shooting from the junior tees or just dropping the ball close to the green are great options that boost kids confidence in the sport and minds etiquette on rate of play.

Proper sized equipment also makes it all the more enjoyable. We were lucky to get some toddler sized clubs from some friends. If you are looking for clubs for your family look around online, ask around your parent group to see if anyone has a set they are looking to unload.

On our first outing to the range I set the bar pretty low. I didn’t expect to get a ton of shots in. I only took my driver and got a whopping three shots in the 45 minutes we were there. I still had fun helping the kids with their swing. Shorter and more frequent visits may just be the ticket. A round for the kids maybe 9 holes but you might have to vacate after 5. Flexibility is key.

While I have not braved the course yet I am feeling the possibility is within reach with a little practice. Until we get there we will be seeing you at the range.