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.
About the Author:
This article provided courtesy of
http://www.golf-swing-guide.com
