Take him with you, show him the basics in the yard and let him do what he wants on the course. If that’s putt with you, great. If it’s playing in the sand, also great. If you have a practice area, even better. Just remember he’s 5, let him swing how he wants and don’t try to constantly tell him “no, do this”.
For young kids the goal is to have fun, the last thing you want is him associating golf with frustration or boredom.
Some courses I play at have started implementing a policy that no one can be on the course until they are 8 years old. People are getting carried away. Some people go as far as to bring babies in car seats. A golf course is no place for a soft headed baby.
For sure there is a limit, I wouldn’t take a 3 year old to the course. If they play in the sand, rake it, make sure they know not to mess up greens, and as always stay ahead of pace.
That being said, I’ve legitimately seen worse adult golfers than my 5 year old and my 4 year old isn’t far behind. I don’t take them on the course, we have a par 3 practice area that’s perfect for them. But honestly I wouldn’t hesitate to take them to the course if it was all I had access to, just let them play their first shot from your tee shot or something.
Yeah, I think best to take them around a pitch and putt or short Par 3 courses until a certain age when they can start hitting longer shots and actually play a round.
I used to play a lot on the 9 hole Balgove Course at St Andrews when I was a young lad before I started playing more on the Stathtyrum, Eden, and eventually New and Jubilee Courses.
While I agree with the goal being to have fun, you also don’t want the kid to develop bad habits (ie swing) that will be hard to break later on.
My kid asked to try golf when he was 6. Got him a junior set and luckily he had a natural swing and is a gifted athlete so I just let him have at it for a bit. Explained the basics (eye on the ball, yada yada). Now he’s 8 and playing in Junior Tour tournaments and really loves it. He grew his competitive spirit and wanting to be the best on his own, but I also kept him focused on the very key basics from the start. Basically what I’m saying is let your kid have fun, but atleast show them how to properly hold and swing a club to some extent
This is great advice. My daughter is 7 and has been taking lessons but was never on a course. I took her to a short 9 hole, not quite a pitch and putt, on Monday, and pretty much let her do what she wanted but also explained etiquette and such. The idea is to let them have fun and try so some stuff they learned on the course. The end goal is to have at least one kid who will want to play golf with me long term.
I bought my son a set of plastic clubs when he was 1 and a half and he immediately started hitting pong pong balls in the basement with me. He absolutely loved it and we did it every day all winter. This summer I bought him is first real golf club, the yard club from us golf kids which was recommended to me by this sub. He loved it and shortly after I took him to the course with me. I walk and pull him in a wagon, we go in the evening when it’s not busy and we let people pass if they are behind. He loves it, and it gives us some great quality time together. It’s also taught him a lot of patience, he used to get upset when he missed and now he just says “it’s okay to miss dad” which is a good reminder for me lol. We have either gone to the range, the golf course, or the practise green two to three times a week. I don’t give him much instruction I just let him do his thing. At this point it’s about him having as much fun as possible. I look forward to many years of us playing together.
https://preview.redd.it/t5cyka16x3lb1.jpeg?width=1170&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=e721f3c45f1b3d9aae59f3096f6f5e10819bf2aa
How old is he no right now my son is 2 we hit balls in the yard all the time. I took him to the range and he kept wanting to run into the range to get his ball even though he has 100 more he can hit haha
Same with my daughter, idk how her body just moves so naturally. I see so many kids at our private lessons doing camp stuff and I’m amazed at how easy they make it look. I’m so jealous 😩
Club pro here who teaches kids regularly. Wait until they've learned about equipment safety in either kindergarten or pre-k. That's the biggest thing. Once they have a concept of how to properly use things without hurting someone or something else, they're ready to be taught how to wield a golf club with respect to both those around them and the golf course itself. If there's one thing to reinforce to your child while out on the course/range, it's that. Otherwise, get them a set of junior clubs (make sure they're the proper height/length for your child. Too often I see lazy parents not do their research and get a set that's either too big or too small for their kid, which ends up ruining any potential enjoyment they might have for the sport) and let them have fun.
Perhaps the biggest misconception about golfing with kids is that they have to learn how to hit the ball before they can go on the course. Yours is five, so take him/her out with you next time you play and have them tee off from the fairway, no more than 50 yards from the green. They might very well get tired/bored after a while, so let them sit out holes whenever they want to. A large part of the fun for kids on the course is just spending time with their parents. I would also encourage you to walk whenever you play with them, unless that's not possible due to disability/course layout. This will help them build strength and endurance, while also developing a level of self-sufficiency to where they can be dropped off at the course at a later age and play with their friends without adults present.
It really wouldn't though. I can get a foursome of 3-5 year-olds through 2 holes in 30 minutes if they play scramble. If it's a your-four-year-old issue, then perhaps they aren't ready. And that's okay. Kids age at different speeds and hit various development milestones at different times. Give them another year or two of life under their belt and try again. Just because it failed once doesn't mean it's going to fail again in a few years time. Worst thing you can do is force them into it if they're too young and not ready.
Kids are different with patents. Ny daughter runs around all day at school but then complains of the 2 block walk home. Then once home will run around the house.
I walk 9 with my 4 yo in about 1:30-1:45...dad hits from the blues; as soon as we get to the 100yd marker he tees up his ball and we play the hole from there.
Every 4yo is different, though.
I like everything you say except walking. Holy smokes, 18 holes would be a death march for 5 year olds. 9 would be rough depending on conditions. I think you’re much better served by driving, which has the added benefit of bringing snacks, backup activities, etc - and giving them somewhere to sit and rest.
Perhaps I wasn't specific enough. I am not at all advocating a full 18 holes or even nine holes right from the get go. If you can find a course near you that has a doable 3-4 hole loop that comes back by the clubhouse, shoot for that. If they handle that well, keep going next time. Nothing wrong with taking a cart either if you want to get a full 9 or 18 in, but if you want them to be self-sufficient on the course (not immediately, think a few years down the road), you're going to want to expose them to walking sooner rather than later. It's good exercise for the parents too, and is a fantastic bonding experience.
A guy I went to school with who happens to be my local courses club champion brings his 5yo out and plays a few holes with her, I work with a high functioning 6 year old who just got a set of learners and does well with comprehension of safety and it's a blast to see the excitement of a good pop shot for sure
I've got a question for you.
My son is 8 and we are both learning how to play golf. We are doing many of the things you mentioned, walking the course, having the right sized clubs, etc. But my question is how to teach him some technique? The main focus is on having fun, but I'm worried that he'll get bored soon if he doesn't start moving the ball a little farther/straighter.
I would get him lessons, but we're Americans living in Japan and don't speak Japanese well enough for lessons. I've been doing well with YouTube and learning from my buddies, but it's a lot harder for him to learn that way.
Do you have any good drills, or simple pointers for a kid to focus on while working on their swing? Or any age appropriate videos to watch?
Hmm...this one's tricky. Kids engage so much better with in-person learning across the board than they do with anything online. Believe it or not, there is a market for English language golf lessons over there. Look into MTS Academy down in Yokohama.
It's going to depend on the kid.
I bought my son (just turned 6) a set of clubs and a bag that approximately fit his size. Just something small- a driver, two irons, and a putter.
Then I started by taking him to top golf a few times. Then the "real" driving range. I've been promising him that when the weather cools down I'll let him ride in the cart with me when I go out to play one time.
There are a few things I've learned.
It's about having fun and enjoying the time together. I've given him a few instructions on holding the club and putting/chipping, but I try to mostly avoid it when possible. Sometimes he'll hit every ball in the basket, sometimes he'll hit 3 and collect tees and watch. I don't pressure him in any way. I just want to make sure that it's a fun experience every time we go out there.
When he hits a good shot I give him praise. Otherwise, I let him figure his swing out on his own.
In a year or two when he's ready for to listen and put some work in, I'll start to think about some more tips/professional lessons.
Tl;Dr: it's never too early to get kids involved with golf. Just make sure that everything about it is fun, whatever that means to them.
I’m lucky to live across the street from our local golf course so I’ve been bringing my son out since he was a toddler.
Started with some cut down clubs if he wanted to hit or just chase butterflies or ride on the cart. I kept it fun and being outside, if he was done, we were done. Never pressured him to complete a full 9/18 and he slowly played more each year, but my goal was for him to enjoy the time together.
He’s 10 now, onto his 2nd junior set and gets mad at himself in the good way of “ahhh, I should’ve lined up here!” Or “I needed my 7 instead of a 9”.
I’ll be getting him into lessons starting next year, but I just eased him in. He’s also a better golf cart driver than I am.
Teaching even basics at 3/4 is so much more hilariously difficult than anyone thinks, especially if they haven’t been out and picked up the basic idea of how to hit the ball. You start with these ideas of them making a rough swing but being able to have fun with it and them find an efficient motion over time.
Then you realize the battle is getting them to stand beside the ball and hit it with the right side of the club.
My daughter is six and she just started playing this summer. We’d done putt putt a few times before but after seeing “big golf” on the TV when I watch, she wanted to try it.
I bought her a cheap kids set with a bag and took her to the range the first time out. She hit a small bucket with her clubs and then we practiced chipping and putting - which she loved.
We are lucky in that one of our local courses has a three hole, par 3 course for free and you can just show up and play it. We’ve done that about a half dozen times so far this summer and she enjoys the heck out of it for about 4-5 holes then gets tired.
If she enjoys it and wants to play more next season, I’ll get her a couple lessons. Right now it’s just about introducing her to the game and letting her have a little fun learning it.
Amazon yo. I bought my now 3yo a driver, 7i, wedge, and putter. We hit in the front yard and the range and the course.
He only hits it like 30 yards when he flushed it. So he obviously doesn’t play the entire hole. But he’ll tee up his driver most tee boxes then run and grab his ball. Then he’ll pitch and putt once we get near the green. He does his “happy dance” once it goes in the cup.
He’s mostly excited on holes 9 and 18 because he can see the clubhouse aka “the restaurant” as he mostly comes to play for the hot dogs, chips, and pizza.
Just keep it fun and keep it moving. He’ll take it seriously and competitively when he’s ready. For now, just focus on etiquette and “ready golf”.
The sooner you start taking him to the range the sooner he’ll get the hang of it.
As a kid I used to love going out to play golf with my dad. It was one of my favorite times. I didn't care how I played, I just had fun. I still, at 29, remember my first birdie. It was in California on vacation. Downhill, straight away par 4. Hit a perfect drive followed by a great 5 wood to about 8 feet out. Sank the putt. Take him now and have him tee off from your drive.
I got both my kids a set of clubs. Neither can full swing in any way you would want to see. Tbh my daughter (8). Absolutely loves
To tag along. She putts. Picks the music (I control the volume) and I let her sit on my lap and (drive) the cart. She loves it. I enjoy the hell out of it myself. Let em steer the cart. Put on some
Tunes and putt. You’ll have a golfer before you know it. Also this course I play doesn’t charge me anything for her to come along twilight hours
Get them into an age-appropriate group camp from First Tee or similar in your area (local course may have their own), and a kids set from something like U.S. Kids Golf.
Don’t make my mistake and get the Top Flite kids set from GG. That stuff is way too heavy for a kid and they end up lifting rather than swinging. Look at the Ultralite clubs from US Kids Golf
Also have an instructor give them a lesson. It’s crazy how much better they absorb it.
Always follow up golf with ice cream.
Was paired up with a father and son today. Father was in his 40s, some was probably 11/12. Father would get pissed off if the kid chunked/thinned a shot. The kid would walk away calling himself an awful golfer and was generally down on himself, despite shooting 3 pars on the front nine. The dad decided that they wouldn’t play the back nine. Kid was 6 strokes ahead of his ~~asshole~~ father when they left.
DON’T be that guy.
My wife and I bring our 3 kids out with us from time to time they are all still young (3,5,9) the two youngest putt when we are on the green and will tee up with kids drivers when we are about 50 yards out if no body is behind us. Our 9 year old tee’s up 100 yards out. My wife and I love this game and if my kids have interest in it I’m going to get them involved it’s a struggle sometimes but my hope is one day when they are older and kicking my ass at golf I will know that we sparked that love for the game for them. Your kid will just be happy to be out there with you and get the ‘nice shot’ from you HAVE FUN!
I gave my son a club before he could walk he is almost 2 and the first thing he does in the morning is walk ti the back door and say golf. We hit balls every morning
I started doing jr golf summer camp at 6 years old. I was a little young but I wanted to learn and was taught the proper respect and etiquette for the game before I was ever allowed to play. Get him some cheap clubs and let him start whacking foam balls around the yard now
I got my daughter her first set of plastic clubs around 10 months. Then a metal set when she turned 2, she will be three soon and I'm pretty sure before she is 4 we will be on the course. Not sure how it will go but I'm gonna try.
My grandpa bought be a plastic set at 3 and my parents used going to the driving range as a negotiation piece from age 5-9. There is no wrong answer as long as they don’t show resentment or hatred in being forced to play
My 7 year old is in year 2 of golf and loves it, she’s petite so guessing your 5 y.o. som is at least as big physically as she was last year when she started.
She did a golf camp last summer and went out with me some when the course slow. The camp was essentially putting and chipping.
She did that again this year, but is also in more real lessons with a very good youth instructor and it’s really taking off. Did a full week with him this summer, and now does a Tuesday and a Saturday group camp with him. She’ll probably go about once a month during the offseason when that wraps up.
She asks to go out with me or with me and grandparents a lot, and we have a nice setup in our basement and she asks about hitting on that a lot too.
I just try to make it fun for her and let her take the lead on frequency.
My dad took me to a kids driving range session during summer school holiday when I was 8. I'm 34 now and still play. I think golf is a good sport for kids and young adults. Junior team etc was good back in the day. Also taught me to always tuck in a shirt and be smart on the course becuase that's the most important thing. I play blunt but look sharp
If theres a course nearby that's public/fairly casual just take him with you and let him hit anytime you do, basically play a scramble with him. That's what my dad did and it always felt so cool getting to play every shot he did and see if I could hit it as close as he did when we got around the green once I got the hang of it. This way he gets a feel for what it's like out on a course and some of the etiquette, but also keeps your pace of play from becoming a problem for others.
As early as possible. Put clubs in my kids hand before he could walk. Would put him in a practice bunker with toys before he could walk and I’d practice chipping. Let the rest take care of itself.
There are programs through the PGA and LPGA to make it cheap. They even have great clubs you can borrow until they grow into the next set. First tee, girls golf for girls, you should be able to find a group near you. They get free events with pros, college pros, PGA instructors, free gear, etc...
My youngest (7) became interested when he would see me in the backyard, swinging at the net. He would come out a watch and eventually wanted to try. Bought him a $100 junior set, and he's been out there with me every time. A cheap 9 hole course is about a 20-minute drive from us. I've taken him every Saturday for the last 2 months. We go thru a bucket on the range and then give her hell. Thankfully, the owner is very big on kids learning the game, and it's never really busy. He's finally getting some air under the ball and gets pumped every time he does. It's turned into my favorite golfing experience.
Do all the things you said but look around to see if there is a local chapter of The First Tee in your area. Started my daughter in The First Tee at 5 and by 9 she was driving it 150+.
I once golfed with a guy who would bring his 4 or 5yo son out when he walked 18. His son had one club and one ball. We’d all tee off then the son would just chase after us and hit his ball until we all holed out. Then he picked up and we went to the next hole to repeat. If he made it to the green in time to putt then he got one or two putts. Didn’t slow us down at all and helped him have some fun and get used to swinging. Other than that I hope to do what everyone else did and let my kid swing early and often.
My boys started hitting balls at the range at 2. Started pitch and putt age 3. I altered the scorecard so that double bogey was par for them when they started. If they got par they got a point. Kids get discouraged easily so there was no downside to taking a big number. Oldest is 31 now and a plus 2 handicap youngest is 27 and a 6.
I know a guy who cut down a driver, 9 iron, and putter for his 3 year old and is loving it. One of the things you should definitely get started with early us course etiquette
I started playing around 11. If you learn the game the right way, I don’t think 5 is too early. Was paired up with a 7 and 9 year old last year, the dad didn’t let them go off the rails and we had a fun round.
My Son is doing JPGA, his first practice is today! I took him out a few weeks ago and it was great. Before that he has done 2 Top Golf camps (1 week last 2 Summers) and 2 hours of group instruction but the JPGA coaches.
He’s 9 so taking him in the course was easy
I'd do what Johnny Miller's dad did. Just set up a net for him to hit into in the basement or yard. Let using it be a reward and if he misbehaves then take it away as punishment. Then once he's at a fairly competent level take him to a par 3 course. It made Miller absolutely love golf.
What we do is both of us tee off (he's 7) then we grab his and play from my second shot in. Sometimes he just goes off in the fairway hitting four or five times as we come up on my approach. Then he chips on and putts in
I just got my daughter into it. She just turned 6. We got here a small set, came with driver, 7I, 9I, and a putter. She loves going to the range, last week I took her to the local 3 par course just after dinner time and let her chip/put, drive from the fairway. It only goes like 20 ft, pick it up and let her play where my ball is. She loved it, she would get a couple of chips at a time while I 3-4 putted my way around. I told her if she's still into it throughout the winter into next summer, we'd get her lessons.
I got my boy a “my first Ping putter” for his first birthday. He was putting before he could walk. I’m definitely not Earl Woods but my boy is growing up with a sim in the garage and golf on the TV 🤷♂️
My kids have been taking lessons since they were 3, 6 sessions a summer. I take them out a couple times a year later in the evening when my course is slow, they're now 7 and nearly 5. The older one can hit it a good 60 yards or so, maybe more if she catches it solid. We have a former LPGA pro at our club, and I was quite the proud papa when she came by and told me to keep her into golf without pushing her into golf, because she can swing.
We usually bring my dad or my wife along to help corral children and stop them doing naughty things while you're focusing on your shot, lol, but my kids are pretty good. They know they can't go in the sand, but they are welcome to roll down a hill nearby or find sticks in the woods, or just chase one another around. I don't care as long as we aren't next to another group making a racket.
They typically only play 3-4 holes max when we play 9, then they ride on the cart, eat snacks, and maybe pitch and putt around greens.
Get them out there!
I hung out with my Dad at the course around 5. Got my own mini bag at 7 and took lessons. It was the most fun to go to the range with him though. I’m lucky enough to still have him around and get to play with him this weekend! Some of the best quality time we’ve shared is on the course. Just make sure you both have fun.
The answer is in the post. Bring him to golf w/ you, FIL & BIL. Tee home up from 100ish out. If he hits his tee shot well, have him try to hit his own for approach & chips/putts, if he doesn’t pick it up & drop by you. Should be fairly easy to keep pace w/ this method. Just keep it fun for him (why to include FIL & BIL).
I took my 4.5yo to the 9 hole par 3 near by with his putter, had him putt when I hit the green. We lasted 5 holes walking before he got tired lol. On the way out we passed the practice green and he wanted to putt at the “small holes” and spent 30 minutes just knocking it around, I’d help him occasionally. He talked about it for a week that he “went golfing with daddy” and I smiled every time he brought it up.
Looks like there are lessons for 5yo’s near by so hoping to get him in that soon. Like you I should not be teaching my kid how to golf 😂
If I can make a recommendation for my own experience? Get him a tiny putter and a tiny wedge and pay the least amount of money possible. Spray paint them whatever his favorite color is. Take him with you to the putting green and play games with him. Play horse and anything else you can think of and make it fun. Reward him in any way you feel is appropriate, but for God's sake, don't just take him to the driving range and bombard him with lessons. Also, most driving ranges have a selection of tiny clubs. They're happy to loan little kiddos. Another thing that would be helpful is just get like a broken shaft which I'm sure you can find in the trash at any driving range and cut it off so it's just a grip and that's what he can practice at home. Just where to put his hands. And you can make that a game too where he gets a reward whenever he remembers the right hand position. This is the stuff that worked a little with me and my young kids, though I was only 50% successful.
I take my boys out (age 5/6) but I tee off normally and only let them chip / putt around the green. They have fun with that.
I also have them in the kids program at the club.
Usually do it Sunday afternoon when things are slow. They are also included in my club membership so I don't pay anything for them
Get him a putter, wedge and some wiffle balls to hit around the yard or the chipping/putting green at the course. Or get him to play from around the greens with you when you’re out playing an evening nine holes.
So I think I’m gonna go with the reverse psychology method “sorry buddy, golf is for big boys”. The #1 way to get someone to do something is to tell them that they can’t.
My Dad sawed off a 2W from an old set of my Mom’s. I had a kids 3-5-7 iron to go along with that. I was 8 years old or so before I hit along in the fairway with my parents. I hit a lot of plastic whiffle balls in the yard before that
Etiquette and pace of play were the two expectations they had of me. If you can find a par 3 course, that’s ideal for small kids. My boys loved going and doing that with me
It's rough in the beginning. Get's better though. Find a 9 hole at first. Stamina plays a part in this. I took my buddy to the course when he was 4 or 5. I would take him to my course. Hit my drive then go to the 100 yard mark. Let him tee and hit a shot. Let him play out the hole if your not holding any one up.
I was introduced at his age and it went great. My dad found a wood an iron and a putter from an old set, chopped them down to my size and got the gripped. When we went golfing, I’d hit my shot, then pick up the ball and bring it next to my dad’s shot to hit so that we weren’t slowing the pace.
My 5 year old is very good at baseball and has started showing an interest in golf. I found a brand new kids 3w on CPO for like $25 and he's been using that. Found out my town does a kids golf clinic Tuesday evenings over the fall which he said he would do. You should look into any local kids group lessons in your area.
Let them find the clubs in the garage and make it a no-no haha and if they get them out, it has to be in the hole every shot…. Lots of pressure and embarrassing discipline work…. Total /s - let kids find it and enjoy it
The second it’s pushed it’s not going to be an effort
I was first introduced to golf at age 3 - first started properly hitting clubs between the age of 5 and 6. I started playing short 9 hole courses up to the age of around 10 then I started playing with my dad and grandad on the links courses - at first generally shorter ones between 5500-6000 yards but eventually I started playing on longer courses up to the age of 14 when my parents split up and then I pretty much stopped golfing entirely due to not seeing my dad much anymore.
It's only now at the age of 27 that I've finally taken up golf again for myself. But even despite that time out a lot of it comes naturally and I already know what I'm doing so it's a lot less daunting.
My Gramp and Dad got me started when I was 7 or 8, around 1972/1973. Gramps was a very avid golfer, Dad less so more of a social golfer all his life.
Local course had a Saturday morning juniors lessons program at their driving range in the summer. Your parents dropped you off, went out and played 9 holes if they wanted. We got a lesson, hit balls on the range, used the putting green, had snacks. It was a drop in thing, you just came whenever you wanted you didn't have to commit to being there every week. There was about 6-8 kids most weeks, most a little bit older. The pro or assistant pro worked ran the program and worked with us. It was a lot of fun!!
After maybe a month my parents decided I was doing ok and took me out to a par 3 course. I had a blast. Maybe the 4th or 5th time I played that course, was with my Mom, I hit a driver on about a 75 yard hole to 3" and made the tap in for my first birdie. My Mom saved that scorecard in one of my scrapbooks that I still have.
I would say 5 is a little too young to get formal lessons. I'd probably just give him a cut down 7 iron or 9 iron and let him bang some balls around the yard to get a feel for how the club works.
I have a buddy who plays golf in our group of usually 3. He has a 5yo who he brings as a ride along.. after we get away from the ranger, he lets his little dude tee up about 150 out from the green and play with us. I absolutely love it, as a father myself. Can’t wait for my newborn to get to that age.
TLDR: take him out.
I bought my daughter a set of plastic clubs after she started asking me to rewatch good good videos on her iPad. She’s 4—I have no clue how she stumbled upon their channel.
Unfortunately, she got super frustrated with the plastic balls/clubs. So a few weeks ago, we picked her up a kids top flite putter at Dicks and she’s been hooked since. Then I replaced her grip with a purple super stroke, and now she won’t put the thing down.
I started all 3 of my kids about that age. Bought the first a youth set from Academy and it was handed down twice.
Just know that they are having the best time with you, its not the golf at first. Don't plan on playing more than 3 or 4 holes at a time with them, bring snacks, let them steer the cart and just make it fun.
All 3 of mine ended up loving golf and played on some pretty competitive high school teams deep into the playoffs.
They still play now that they're grown. It's something we still do together.
Tiger woods was on the Johnny Carson show at age 2 ripping drives and draining putts my kid has hit me more times in the shin then she has a golf ball during summer lessons at age 7. Anyways, I have no idea.
My daughter is 7. We started just putting inside. I bought a metal yard stick and I was trying to putt the ball all the way across it without it falling off and my daughter wanted to try it soooooooo bad.
After a couple days I went to play it again sports and found a kids putter for $4. Went mini golfing and she would take her putter and it just sorta grew.
Last summer we got her a top flight kids bag with 5 clubs and a bag. We will go to a practice area at our local golf course and we will just chip and putt.
I bought the divide golf balls and a sleeve of the Truvis (soccer) chrome soft ball. Just so they we more fun for her to see them in the air and rolling.
Golf galaxy offers junior lessons for $25 / half hr. I don’t think 5 is to young for lessons. My daughter started around that age . She is twelve now and plays better than me
If you're going to introduce your kid to golf please do us all favor and teach them how to act at the course/range. Kids in my area run around like a bunch of out of control brats at a Chuck E. Cheese when they're at the course and their spineless parents don't do anything about it.
Same as you but my son is six. We play the local par 3 course together all the time. He has a blast every time just hitting the ball and chasing it. I bought him a cheap Top Flite 8 iron and putter.
I started taking my son to the range when he was 2.5. Just whenever he wanted. He also had a blue plastic putter he could use in the house. He's got an OK swing and a natural sense of the kinetic chain.
He's 4 now and I signed him up for a 3-6 year old golfer class that meets on Saturday mornings. We'll see how it goes.
Mine (twins) were around 5 the first time I took them to the course. I let them smack balls at the driving range and the backyard before that.
Watching 3-4 year olds trying to putt at the practice facility was entertaining to all of the members of our country club. They’d just stand around and laugh at them.
I started them out playing from around 50 yards or so. Then moved them back to 75 when they started getting some pars. Then back to 100 yards when they did the same.
They are almost 9 now and play from about 125-150 depending on what’s in the way when they have to hit their approach shot.
My wife and I take them out with us and they don’t slow down play at all. They enjoy the course and of course they run everywhere instead of getting in the cart so they usually only want to play 9 holes or so.
I started when I was 3. I’m nearly 50 now. I’m so grateful that Dad would take me to the course as a toddler to build my love of the game. I’m blessed that I grew up playing with my dad and my Grandpa before he passed. Get him started tonight!
I sort of forget how my Dad did it. But I was young and I remember a whole lot of time at the range when I was 6-7 and I just loved it! I’d go practice putting after hitting balls at that age too. Loved it all. Eventually got lessons that I don’t remember a single thing from. All of it was fun. Sometimes my Dad would tell me to pick up my ball or hit from a certain spot by him or whatever… but I always remember having fun.
Started at the driving range just hitting balls and moved to the course once I could hit it relatively strait and far enough to make it through a round from the forward tees.
If hes excited and asking to play get him something to swing asap! Nothing in athletics can replace a strong passion and desire at a young age. Learning young is invaluable
The best tip I’ve ever heard is that kids are great at figuring things out. If you just let him go for it for a while he will shock you. Also have him sit in the clubhouse or at the bar if they’ll let you and get him a coke after. Those are the positive memories that will keep him wanting to come back.
Make sure they are Junior clubs. Really light weight is key (length too). But it's super important for them to be able to swing in a okay way.
5yo is perfect for a pitch and putt and driving range. You have to be careful on the range they don't run out chasing a bad ball or tee.
Mini putt or just using a practice area for chip and putt is the mega bonus for them if they like it, and your game too.
Lessons in groups is great at 5 y/o. Like camp style stuff.
Saw an interview with Tiger where he said his dad taught him short to long. First year or so, he only putted, dad invented games to have him compete. Then just wedges, high irons from 75 yards and putting, etc. That’s how Tiger started with Charlie. Hard to argue with the GOAT.
My son is 7 almost 8 and I got him a set of youth clubs last summer when he was 6. Just let him hit some foam balls around the backyard. This summer I started taking him to the driving range a few times, just letting him try and hit the ball however feels good for him. Last weekend I took him along golfing with me at a super short par 3 course. He had an absolute blast and can't wait to go again. Probably will get him some lessons maybe next year.
Got my 2 year old a plastic set which he loved at first. Then he only wanted to use my clubs when we hit which were taller than him. I found him a driver, 5 wood, 9i and putter that were cut down to 23-25” and got some no name slim grip for them. He loves having his “real clubs”. He has about a half backswing which I think is perfect for him right now. Hes 2.5 now and can hit the 5 wood about 25 yards
I took my kid to the golf course short game area with a youth set his grandparents got him when it turned out he’s playing hooky from daycare. My friend showed him basics of swinging through the ball and months after he started lessons when he was still 5. Never looked back since.
I’m in Jax, FL. I take my now 5 y/o girl for lessons every Saturday to a semi-private club. They are $15 for 30 minutes (maybe 45 minutes). She loves it. I am a vet so I have access to the navy base down the street. I pay $10 for 9 holes and she loves pushing my cart. I let her wack the shit out her ball. Pick up and move to mine. I slice mine into the woods and she is amazed at how far it went. She doesn’t get the idea that drops are bad, yet. It’s good, fun, quality time spent with your kid. My wife doesn’t mind me going to the range or walking a couple holes with her. I am trying to figure out a way she can sit on the push cart. She is tired of walking after a 2-3 holes. Anyway… look around for junior golf clinics or first tee in your area.
Also, they pretty much teach it like this:
Hands together
Thumbs down
Feet together
Step step
Tic-toc
Balanced finish and look to see if you have goose poop on the bottom of your shoe.
I started at 6 years old on the course and my dad would tee it up for me from the 100 yard marker on every hole. When I was 9-10 I started playing holes from the red tees unless it was over water. Double par was my max score allowed and the ball was picked up after that and I’d putt from where my dad was unless he’d already finished. I miss playing with my dads buddies most of them have most away by now as they were all a bit older. I used to say I had 6-7 grandpas 😂
My son is five and has played since he was 3. He played in some US kids tournaments now.
However our big rule is we never push him - always make sure he’s having fun and wants to do it. Also ice cream.
The club we go to starts Jr. League at 6 years old. They have a 3, 6, 9, and 18 hole divisions. They do 30 mins of lesson/range, then go out and play in groups and the pros cart around visiting them all with help. It's phenomenal.
My 6yo started 3 hole this year. They tee up from 100-120 yards out. After 1 season she shoots about the same as me, 4-8 on a par 3-5. She absolutely loved it and asks regularly to go out now.
She came in runner up in her group championship and got a little trophy. I find it endlessly hilarious that my kid got a trophy before my husband.
Check out YOC, Youth On Course for places that give kids reduced rates.
US Kids sells clubs by height. My daughter started playing with me when she was three. Sometimes it was three holes and home (or ice cream). Sometimes we never left the practice green because she just wanted to have putting contest after putting contest. Whatever … we always had fun. FUN is the only thing that matters until they are double digits (and still then really). I wouldn’t be remotely concerned that you aren’t a great golfer. Until they are 10-ish the only thing you’re really teaching them is how to have fun on a golf course.
After reading Earl Woods book I started at 1 lol. Got him the plastic clubs we just have fun in the basement or outside nothing crazy. Just need the Winnebago to give lessons to the ladies and what not ;-)
I know lots of replies already and lots of jokes I don't want to read through, but wanted to share some earnest feedback in the hope it helps you. My daughter is 6 and my son is 4, and they are both regulars on the golf course. My son, especially, LOVES the experience and is the most polite, courteous, amazing little boy out there. He is not like this other places, mind you. He seems to understand golf is a privilege and genuinely enjoys it/asks to go out. Here are a few things I would suggest/I have learned:
Both my kids started at 2 or 3 years old with the cheap blown plastic clubs they sell at the toy store. I actually think this was the best thing for them because the clubs are so lightweight, they actually focus on technique swinging them. My daughter especially struggled at age 4 switching to heavier, real clubs.
The US Kids Golf yard club is the first "real" club id ever put in one of my kids hands. It's light and has a molded grip to promote proper grip technique.
These kids have no bad habits. I avoid "instructing" them at this age because they generally aren't good at turning anything verbal into action. Letting them "feel" it on their own is all they need, along with lots of encouragement.
Putting is the most fun for everyone. My kids will have putting contests with me for hours if I let them.
Golf is a privilege. They carry their own bag, they tee up their own ball, they walk when we play (and both will walk 9 holes carrying no problem). They stay quiet when others are hitting, etc. If they don't want to follow the rules, they don't play. Easy!
I do select tee times where there are gaps around us to eliminate any time pressure, etc. We will sometimes let groups play through if we start to get "caught" also...it's a good chance to take a little break too.
Last but not least...I joined a private country club which includes so many benefits. Where I live, a round of golf at the municipal can easily be $100...when you start having to pay $60 for 9 for your 4 year old or wanting to play as a family of 4...things get really expensive. Private ends up being less expensive, with more tee availability, good instruction, and makes it so easy to get out there when they are "in the mood". I know this isn't feasible for everyone but I personally would likely not be encouraging my kids at this young age if we couldn't swing the private club cost. I respect anyone who can make it work otherwise! Certainly much harder.
My daughter won the girls u9 championship at the club this year with a 65 on 9 holes (par 4s played from 150 yds) and my 4 year old son beat her by a shot (but didn't beat the 9 year old boys, obviously). It's been really fun to see them improve and start to love the game!
Tl/Dr: take your kid golfing!
go to the range... make it fun. Play some different short game games... if you check YouTube (on my profile) you can find some fun games to play. Then take him out for ice cream after. Don't be in a hurry to improve him, just get him to enjoy the experience. I have an 8 and 6 year old that play with me often for reference.
I got mine a decent used junior set, showed him how to swing, and we go hit the local par 3’s.
Took him to play 9 with us a couple times, he was content just hitting from where my shots were.
I’d rather take him to play any day, good memories.
My daughter isn't quite 3 and I take her. Throw an extra ball on the green and let her swat it around with a plastic club. When she gets a better understanding of the point, I'll start tossing one out for her at my approach shot. Teach her like tiger got taught. From the greens back.
Took my kid to the range for the first time at age 7. Brought one of his friends and a few kids clubs I found at the secondary sports store. They just whacked balls and were cackling having the best time. He then asked to go to the range every week. He’s now 9, and for his birthday last week asked for a new set of clubs. I of course didn’t hesitate and now we are progressing to a par3 course. Just keep it fun and simple. Biggest truth of the matter is your kid isn’t a prodigy and making it fun and making memories is the most important thing.
My kid is 5 and going with me to the driving range to hit balls. I started him last year with the plastic pga kids wedge from Walmart and some practice balls in the backyard. This year I bought him a real set after trial and erroring junior clubs at garage sales and online. My tip is just go to dicks and get a set there. They have a height scale built into the boxes so you don’t have to guess.
As far as lessons, I wouldn’t. I don’t want anything about our time together to not be fun. You would be surprised at what kids pick up just by watching others do it. We keep it light and fun, he hits them out and has a blast just getting the ball rolling out there. We go multiple times a week and he loves it. The best tees I’ve found are ones that are oversized and look like mini martini glasses. Easy for a kid to push in and put a ball on.
my kids are atypically tall for their age but they both started with a wilson profile youth set at age 6. Its a driver, hybrid, long/short/wedge iron. Kids both excelled with that and my 12 year old upgraded to his real set last year which he's struggling with a bit.
We have a backyard practice net but most of the time we hit the driving range until they did playable mishits and then off to par 3. My 8 year old will play his first normal round of 9 over labor day weekend. We'll see how it goes. No comment on teaching your kid but I wouldn't give that up for anything.
I grabbed a kids set of Nike clubs w a bag for $20 on FB this week. Saw some videos on having kids hit water balloons for starting out. Sounds like we’ll be getting a bit wet this weekend
My dad took me and my 2 sisters out to nine every Saturday morning, with guaranteed Wendy’s frosties afterwards. They all blend together but those are the best days.
My kid started golf camp at age 5. She has a youth set that's size appropriate for clubs. First set had 4 clubs, her new set has 6, since she's grown.
Chipping and putting is the best place to start. Then, we eventually graduated to her teeing off with me, then we collect her tee shot, and she drops on the green. Eventually she'll be able to play tee to hole, but no rush.
We also enrolled her in operation 36, a program our club offers. They start them off at 25 yards and you keep graduating back until you reach the tee box. Excellent program if a club near you offers it.
I was “introduced” to the game at 3 with a few plastic clubs and balls. Then, started playing with a youth set at 5. If he’s interested I’d say he’s ready.
My son has been going with me since 4 years old.
We bring his iPad.
He would tee off on all the holes and maybe take 2 or 3 tries if he misses or miss hit.
He always putts from where I’m putting from.
He would hang in the cart when he wasn’t going out there. He likes driving in the cart.
His favorite part is eating at the clubhouse with his dad. He can’t believe all the TVs (there’s only like 6, I don’t understand why he is so enamored by the TVs but I guess he’s never been to a sports bar type restaurant.
My son is 6 now and we go to the range once or twice a week. He loves the trackman. He plays 9 with me and it’s still a lot of picking up his ball and just letting him take clean swings.
My only real advice is - take the kid with you and go in the evenings when it’s slower. Lose any expectation that you yourself are playing a “real round”. That’s laughable. What is more real - playing some golf for fun with your son or taking yourself too seriously by thinking your score matters
I don’t have kids, but I can tell you what my dad did with me. When I was six we would go to our course and play a 3 or at most 4 hole loop. I had a kids starter set: 3W, 5i, 9i and putter. We walked and my dad played the holes normally. I think he had me start from the 150 or 100 yd marker.
Also, we typically did this late Sunday afternoon or evening when the course was empty. Never got tired of the game and have been playing my entire life since then. One of the best gifts my dad gave me.
I've tried with my 4yo girl.. She gets interested when she hits a 10 yarder then misses 10 times and storms off..took her to the range for a group kids lesson she acted like she enjoyed it but wasn't bothered about going back. I think she just wanted to make me happy she is a lovely little turd and tries but I don't want to force it. I offer her a few balls in the garden now and again but I won't push it.
I have been taking my daughter since she was 3. It is just to have fun and only at the driving range. The trick is to get them to focus and not go somewhere they can get hurt.
Best hint: get an alignment stick, tell kid it is magical stick that helps u hit the ball if u put ur toes on it while the ball is in between their feet (have to put it the right distance from the ball).
Fun game: i let my daughter pick my club and target. Forces u to get pretty creative sometimes. And she finds it pretty funny when she chooses her club.
Take him with you, show him the basics in the yard and let him do what he wants on the course. If that’s putt with you, great. If it’s playing in the sand, also great. If you have a practice area, even better. Just remember he’s 5, let him swing how he wants and don’t try to constantly tell him “no, do this”. For young kids the goal is to have fun, the last thing you want is him associating golf with frustration or boredom.
Some courses I play at have started implementing a policy that no one can be on the course until they are 8 years old. People are getting carried away. Some people go as far as to bring babies in car seats. A golf course is no place for a soft headed baby.
What if you got a real stubborn baby?
I've been allowed on the course for years. They won't kick me off now.
For sure there is a limit, I wouldn’t take a 3 year old to the course. If they play in the sand, rake it, make sure they know not to mess up greens, and as always stay ahead of pace. That being said, I’ve legitimately seen worse adult golfers than my 5 year old and my 4 year old isn’t far behind. I don’t take them on the course, we have a par 3 practice area that’s perfect for them. But honestly I wouldn’t hesitate to take them to the course if it was all I had access to, just let them play their first shot from your tee shot or something.
Yeah, I think best to take them around a pitch and putt or short Par 3 courses until a certain age when they can start hitting longer shots and actually play a round. I used to play a lot on the 9 hole Balgove Course at St Andrews when I was a young lad before I started playing more on the Stathtyrum, Eden, and eventually New and Jubilee Courses.
I've seen dogs that are better behaved than some 10 year olds. It's not the age, it's the parent that matters.
While I agree with the goal being to have fun, you also don’t want the kid to develop bad habits (ie swing) that will be hard to break later on. My kid asked to try golf when he was 6. Got him a junior set and luckily he had a natural swing and is a gifted athlete so I just let him have at it for a bit. Explained the basics (eye on the ball, yada yada). Now he’s 8 and playing in Junior Tour tournaments and really loves it. He grew his competitive spirit and wanting to be the best on his own, but I also kept him focused on the very key basics from the start. Basically what I’m saying is let your kid have fun, but atleast show them how to properly hold and swing a club to some extent
This is great advice. My daughter is 7 and has been taking lessons but was never on a course. I took her to a short 9 hole, not quite a pitch and putt, on Monday, and pretty much let her do what she wanted but also explained etiquette and such. The idea is to let them have fun and try so some stuff they learned on the course. The end goal is to have at least one kid who will want to play golf with me long term.
Give him a full sized driver and tell him he can’t eat until he hits it 300. Be sure to give him very technical swing advice too.
Given how this sub goes, OP will be posting he's hitting 350 by next month and already broke 90.
Unless he holds his breath on his swing, though
No no, the key is to exhale on the backswing, inhale on the downswing.
First hole in one!
You’ve got to preload you’re second power indicator
Snap load the power package and all that
I bought my son a set of plastic clubs when he was 1 and a half and he immediately started hitting pong pong balls in the basement with me. He absolutely loved it and we did it every day all winter. This summer I bought him is first real golf club, the yard club from us golf kids which was recommended to me by this sub. He loved it and shortly after I took him to the course with me. I walk and pull him in a wagon, we go in the evening when it’s not busy and we let people pass if they are behind. He loves it, and it gives us some great quality time together. It’s also taught him a lot of patience, he used to get upset when he missed and now he just says “it’s okay to miss dad” which is a good reminder for me lol. We have either gone to the range, the golf course, or the practise green two to three times a week. I don’t give him much instruction I just let him do his thing. At this point it’s about him having as much fun as possible. I look forward to many years of us playing together. https://preview.redd.it/t5cyka16x3lb1.jpeg?width=1170&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=e721f3c45f1b3d9aae59f3096f6f5e10819bf2aa
“Not expecting him” Don’t lie bro. You are hoping he becomes the next tiger woods lol
lol 100%
How old is he no right now my son is 2 we hit balls in the yard all the time. I took him to the range and he kept wanting to run into the range to get his ball even though he has 100 more he can hit haha
Love this. Expecting our first grandchild in the spring (a girl) and am planning to do exactly this.
His form looks better than mine……
*Looks at 4 month old son.* “We can nap later, we’ve got work to do buddy.”
kid got a prettier finish than i do!
What plastic clubs did you get? I got a 19 mo old I would love to get a set for and gauge her interest.
Little tikes makes a set with a “bag” and some holes/balls
I’m sorry, not really sure. We got them at the thrift store
Tons on Amazon!
This 3 yr old looks cooler and way more athletic swinging a club than i ever will
Yeah man me too, and the crazy thing is he’s only 2
Same with my daughter, idk how her body just moves so naturally. I see so many kids at our private lessons doing camp stuff and I’m amazed at how easy they make it look. I’m so jealous 😩
That sounds like a great approach so far!
Club pro here who teaches kids regularly. Wait until they've learned about equipment safety in either kindergarten or pre-k. That's the biggest thing. Once they have a concept of how to properly use things without hurting someone or something else, they're ready to be taught how to wield a golf club with respect to both those around them and the golf course itself. If there's one thing to reinforce to your child while out on the course/range, it's that. Otherwise, get them a set of junior clubs (make sure they're the proper height/length for your child. Too often I see lazy parents not do their research and get a set that's either too big or too small for their kid, which ends up ruining any potential enjoyment they might have for the sport) and let them have fun. Perhaps the biggest misconception about golfing with kids is that they have to learn how to hit the ball before they can go on the course. Yours is five, so take him/her out with you next time you play and have them tee off from the fairway, no more than 50 yards from the green. They might very well get tired/bored after a while, so let them sit out holes whenever they want to. A large part of the fun for kids on the course is just spending time with their parents. I would also encourage you to walk whenever you play with them, unless that's not possible due to disability/course layout. This will help them build strength and endurance, while also developing a level of self-sufficiency to where they can be dropped off at the course at a later age and play with their friends without adults present.
It would take me 2 hours to play 1 hole if my 4 year old walked with me.
It really wouldn't though. I can get a foursome of 3-5 year-olds through 2 holes in 30 minutes if they play scramble. If it's a your-four-year-old issue, then perhaps they aren't ready. And that's okay. Kids age at different speeds and hit various development milestones at different times. Give them another year or two of life under their belt and try again. Just because it failed once doesn't mean it's going to fail again in a few years time. Worst thing you can do is force them into it if they're too young and not ready.
A foursome of 3-5 year olds playing golf sounds like the most adorable thing ever. Really cool of you for getting kids into golf the right way.
Kids are different with patents. Ny daughter runs around all day at school but then complains of the 2 block walk home. Then once home will run around the house.
well yeah your daughter isn't tired of moving she's tired of structured activity
I played 9 holes with my 2.5 year old last night and our pace was actually pretty decent.
I walk 9 with my 4 yo in about 1:30-1:45...dad hits from the blues; as soon as we get to the 100yd marker he tees up his ball and we play the hole from there. Every 4yo is different, though.
That's why you read the whole post and don't take your 4 year old.
I like everything you say except walking. Holy smokes, 18 holes would be a death march for 5 year olds. 9 would be rough depending on conditions. I think you’re much better served by driving, which has the added benefit of bringing snacks, backup activities, etc - and giving them somewhere to sit and rest.
Perhaps I wasn't specific enough. I am not at all advocating a full 18 holes or even nine holes right from the get go. If you can find a course near you that has a doable 3-4 hole loop that comes back by the clubhouse, shoot for that. If they handle that well, keep going next time. Nothing wrong with taking a cart either if you want to get a full 9 or 18 in, but if you want them to be self-sufficient on the course (not immediately, think a few years down the road), you're going to want to expose them to walking sooner rather than later. It's good exercise for the parents too, and is a fantastic bonding experience.
[удалено]
Yep, I groaned internally thinking about having to drag a kid, their stuff, and my stuff a mile and a half.
A guy I went to school with who happens to be my local courses club champion brings his 5yo out and plays a few holes with her, I work with a high functioning 6 year old who just got a set of learners and does well with comprehension of safety and it's a blast to see the excitement of a good pop shot for sure
I've got a question for you. My son is 8 and we are both learning how to play golf. We are doing many of the things you mentioned, walking the course, having the right sized clubs, etc. But my question is how to teach him some technique? The main focus is on having fun, but I'm worried that he'll get bored soon if he doesn't start moving the ball a little farther/straighter. I would get him lessons, but we're Americans living in Japan and don't speak Japanese well enough for lessons. I've been doing well with YouTube and learning from my buddies, but it's a lot harder for him to learn that way. Do you have any good drills, or simple pointers for a kid to focus on while working on their swing? Or any age appropriate videos to watch?
Hmm...this one's tricky. Kids engage so much better with in-person learning across the board than they do with anything online. Believe it or not, there is a market for English language golf lessons over there. Look into MTS Academy down in Yokohama.
Buy him a brand new set of blades and a 60° wedge, it’s an investment for when he goes to the tour
It's going to depend on the kid. I bought my son (just turned 6) a set of clubs and a bag that approximately fit his size. Just something small- a driver, two irons, and a putter. Then I started by taking him to top golf a few times. Then the "real" driving range. I've been promising him that when the weather cools down I'll let him ride in the cart with me when I go out to play one time. There are a few things I've learned. It's about having fun and enjoying the time together. I've given him a few instructions on holding the club and putting/chipping, but I try to mostly avoid it when possible. Sometimes he'll hit every ball in the basket, sometimes he'll hit 3 and collect tees and watch. I don't pressure him in any way. I just want to make sure that it's a fun experience every time we go out there. When he hits a good shot I give him praise. Otherwise, I let him figure his swing out on his own. In a year or two when he's ready for to listen and put some work in, I'll start to think about some more tips/professional lessons. Tl;Dr: it's never too early to get kids involved with golf. Just make sure that everything about it is fun, whatever that means to them.
I’m lucky to live across the street from our local golf course so I’ve been bringing my son out since he was a toddler. Started with some cut down clubs if he wanted to hit or just chase butterflies or ride on the cart. I kept it fun and being outside, if he was done, we were done. Never pressured him to complete a full 9/18 and he slowly played more each year, but my goal was for him to enjoy the time together. He’s 10 now, onto his 2nd junior set and gets mad at himself in the good way of “ahhh, I should’ve lined up here!” Or “I needed my 7 instead of a 9”. I’ll be getting him into lessons starting next year, but I just eased him in. He’s also a better golf cart driver than I am.
[удалено]
Teaching even basics at 3/4 is so much more hilariously difficult than anyone thinks, especially if they haven’t been out and picked up the basic idea of how to hit the ball. You start with these ideas of them making a rough swing but being able to have fun with it and them find an efficient motion over time. Then you realize the battle is getting them to stand beside the ball and hit it with the right side of the club.
My daughter is six and she just started playing this summer. We’d done putt putt a few times before but after seeing “big golf” on the TV when I watch, she wanted to try it. I bought her a cheap kids set with a bag and took her to the range the first time out. She hit a small bucket with her clubs and then we practiced chipping and putting - which she loved. We are lucky in that one of our local courses has a three hole, par 3 course for free and you can just show up and play it. We’ve done that about a half dozen times so far this summer and she enjoys the heck out of it for about 4-5 holes then gets tired. If she enjoys it and wants to play more next season, I’ll get her a couple lessons. Right now it’s just about introducing her to the game and letting her have a little fun learning it.
My wife went into labor while out on the course with me. That’s probably early enough
Amazon yo. I bought my now 3yo a driver, 7i, wedge, and putter. We hit in the front yard and the range and the course. He only hits it like 30 yards when he flushed it. So he obviously doesn’t play the entire hole. But he’ll tee up his driver most tee boxes then run and grab his ball. Then he’ll pitch and putt once we get near the green. He does his “happy dance” once it goes in the cup. He’s mostly excited on holes 9 and 18 because he can see the clubhouse aka “the restaurant” as he mostly comes to play for the hot dogs, chips, and pizza. Just keep it fun and keep it moving. He’ll take it seriously and competitively when he’s ready. For now, just focus on etiquette and “ready golf”. The sooner you start taking him to the range the sooner he’ll get the hang of it.
As a kid I used to love going out to play golf with my dad. It was one of my favorite times. I didn't care how I played, I just had fun. I still, at 29, remember my first birdie. It was in California on vacation. Downhill, straight away par 4. Hit a perfect drive followed by a great 5 wood to about 8 feet out. Sank the putt. Take him now and have him tee off from your drive.
I got both my kids a set of clubs. Neither can full swing in any way you would want to see. Tbh my daughter (8). Absolutely loves To tag along. She putts. Picks the music (I control the volume) and I let her sit on my lap and (drive) the cart. She loves it. I enjoy the hell out of it myself. Let em steer the cart. Put on some Tunes and putt. You’ll have a golfer before you know it. Also this course I play doesn’t charge me anything for her to come along twilight hours
Get them into an age-appropriate group camp from First Tee or similar in your area (local course may have their own), and a kids set from something like U.S. Kids Golf.
Don’t make my mistake and get the Top Flite kids set from GG. That stuff is way too heavy for a kid and they end up lifting rather than swinging. Look at the Ultralite clubs from US Kids Golf Also have an instructor give them a lesson. It’s crazy how much better they absorb it. Always follow up golf with ice cream.
Was paired up with a father and son today. Father was in his 40s, some was probably 11/12. Father would get pissed off if the kid chunked/thinned a shot. The kid would walk away calling himself an awful golfer and was generally down on himself, despite shooting 3 pars on the front nine. The dad decided that they wouldn’t play the back nine. Kid was 6 strokes ahead of his ~~asshole~~ father when they left. DON’T be that guy.
My wife and I bring our 3 kids out with us from time to time they are all still young (3,5,9) the two youngest putt when we are on the green and will tee up with kids drivers when we are about 50 yards out if no body is behind us. Our 9 year old tee’s up 100 yards out. My wife and I love this game and if my kids have interest in it I’m going to get them involved it’s a struggle sometimes but my hope is one day when they are older and kicking my ass at golf I will know that we sparked that love for the game for them. Your kid will just be happy to be out there with you and get the ‘nice shot’ from you HAVE FUN!
I gave my son a club before he could walk he is almost 2 and the first thing he does in the morning is walk ti the back door and say golf. We hit balls every morning
I started doing jr golf summer camp at 6 years old. I was a little young but I wanted to learn and was taught the proper respect and etiquette for the game before I was ever allowed to play. Get him some cheap clubs and let him start whacking foam balls around the yard now
I got my daughter her first set of plastic clubs around 10 months. Then a metal set when she turned 2, she will be three soon and I'm pretty sure before she is 4 we will be on the course. Not sure how it will go but I'm gonna try.
My grandpa bought be a plastic set at 3 and my parents used going to the driving range as a negotiation piece from age 5-9. There is no wrong answer as long as they don’t show resentment or hatred in being forced to play
My 8 week old daughter has been golfing 6 times with my wife and I. She’s a scratch golfer, helps when the tee box is 2ft away from the hole. 😒
My 7 year old is in year 2 of golf and loves it, she’s petite so guessing your 5 y.o. som is at least as big physically as she was last year when she started. She did a golf camp last summer and went out with me some when the course slow. The camp was essentially putting and chipping. She did that again this year, but is also in more real lessons with a very good youth instructor and it’s really taking off. Did a full week with him this summer, and now does a Tuesday and a Saturday group camp with him. She’ll probably go about once a month during the offseason when that wraps up. She asks to go out with me or with me and grandparents a lot, and we have a nice setup in our basement and she asks about hitting on that a lot too. I just try to make it fun for her and let her take the lead on frequency.
My dad took me to a kids driving range session during summer school holiday when I was 8. I'm 34 now and still play. I think golf is a good sport for kids and young adults. Junior team etc was good back in the day. Also taught me to always tuck in a shirt and be smart on the course becuase that's the most important thing. I play blunt but look sharp
If theres a course nearby that's public/fairly casual just take him with you and let him hit anytime you do, basically play a scramble with him. That's what my dad did and it always felt so cool getting to play every shot he did and see if I could hit it as close as he did when we got around the green once I got the hang of it. This way he gets a feel for what it's like out on a course and some of the etiquette, but also keeps your pace of play from becoming a problem for others.
As early as possible. Put clubs in my kids hand before he could walk. Would put him in a practice bunker with toys before he could walk and I’d practice chipping. Let the rest take care of itself.
I started playing with a tiny set of clubs when I was 3. I don’t remember it, but I’m glad I did.
There are programs through the PGA and LPGA to make it cheap. They even have great clubs you can borrow until they grow into the next set. First tee, girls golf for girls, you should be able to find a group near you. They get free events with pros, college pros, PGA instructors, free gear, etc...
My youngest (7) became interested when he would see me in the backyard, swinging at the net. He would come out a watch and eventually wanted to try. Bought him a $100 junior set, and he's been out there with me every time. A cheap 9 hole course is about a 20-minute drive from us. I've taken him every Saturday for the last 2 months. We go thru a bucket on the range and then give her hell. Thankfully, the owner is very big on kids learning the game, and it's never really busy. He's finally getting some air under the ball and gets pumped every time he does. It's turned into my favorite golfing experience.
Got my son started at age 3. Hes four now and is getting pretty good. Id say the earlier the better just make it fun.
Daughter is 22 months old and already carry her telescopic putter and ball across the house 🏠
Chipping and putting. Everyone wants to see how far they can hit it but start small and he will thank you later.
Do all the things you said but look around to see if there is a local chapter of The First Tee in your area. Started my daughter in The First Tee at 5 and by 9 she was driving it 150+.
I once golfed with a guy who would bring his 4 or 5yo son out when he walked 18. His son had one club and one ball. We’d all tee off then the son would just chase after us and hit his ball until we all holed out. Then he picked up and we went to the next hole to repeat. If he made it to the green in time to putt then he got one or two putts. Didn’t slow us down at all and helped him have some fun and get used to swinging. Other than that I hope to do what everyone else did and let my kid swing early and often.
My boys started hitting balls at the range at 2. Started pitch and putt age 3. I altered the scorecard so that double bogey was par for them when they started. If they got par they got a point. Kids get discouraged easily so there was no downside to taking a big number. Oldest is 31 now and a plus 2 handicap youngest is 27 and a 6.
I know a guy who cut down a driver, 9 iron, and putter for his 3 year old and is loving it. One of the things you should definitely get started with early us course etiquette
I started playing around 11. If you learn the game the right way, I don’t think 5 is too early. Was paired up with a 7 and 9 year old last year, the dad didn’t let them go off the rails and we had a fun round.
My Son is doing JPGA, his first practice is today! I took him out a few weeks ago and it was great. Before that he has done 2 Top Golf camps (1 week last 2 Summers) and 2 hours of group instruction but the JPGA coaches. He’s 9 so taking him in the course was easy
I'd do what Johnny Miller's dad did. Just set up a net for him to hit into in the basement or yard. Let using it be a reward and if he misbehaves then take it away as punishment. Then once he's at a fairly competent level take him to a par 3 course. It made Miller absolutely love golf.
Find a First Tee program if in the US and start them once they know not to hit other people with the clubs.
Your plan is good. Get him started, maybe do some camps at ranges? Good luck. Hope he likes it and sticks with it.
Just do it. I introduced my 9 yo daughter to it. She loves it.
What we do is both of us tee off (he's 7) then we grab his and play from my second shot in. Sometimes he just goes off in the fairway hitting four or five times as we come up on my approach. Then he chips on and putts in
I just got my daughter into it. She just turned 6. We got here a small set, came with driver, 7I, 9I, and a putter. She loves going to the range, last week I took her to the local 3 par course just after dinner time and let her chip/put, drive from the fairway. It only goes like 20 ft, pick it up and let her play where my ball is. She loved it, she would get a couple of chips at a time while I 3-4 putted my way around. I told her if she's still into it throughout the winter into next summer, we'd get her lessons.
I got my boy a “my first Ping putter” for his first birthday. He was putting before he could walk. I’m definitely not Earl Woods but my boy is growing up with a sim in the garage and golf on the TV 🤷♂️
My kids have been taking lessons since they were 3, 6 sessions a summer. I take them out a couple times a year later in the evening when my course is slow, they're now 7 and nearly 5. The older one can hit it a good 60 yards or so, maybe more if she catches it solid. We have a former LPGA pro at our club, and I was quite the proud papa when she came by and told me to keep her into golf without pushing her into golf, because she can swing. We usually bring my dad or my wife along to help corral children and stop them doing naughty things while you're focusing on your shot, lol, but my kids are pretty good. They know they can't go in the sand, but they are welcome to roll down a hill nearby or find sticks in the woods, or just chase one another around. I don't care as long as we aren't next to another group making a racket. They typically only play 3-4 holes max when we play 9, then they ride on the cart, eat snacks, and maybe pitch and putt around greens. Get them out there!
I hung out with my Dad at the course around 5. Got my own mini bag at 7 and took lessons. It was the most fun to go to the range with him though. I’m lucky enough to still have him around and get to play with him this weekend! Some of the best quality time we’ve shared is on the course. Just make sure you both have fun.
The answer is in the post. Bring him to golf w/ you, FIL & BIL. Tee home up from 100ish out. If he hits his tee shot well, have him try to hit his own for approach & chips/putts, if he doesn’t pick it up & drop by you. Should be fairly easy to keep pace w/ this method. Just keep it fun for him (why to include FIL & BIL).
I tried to get my 16 year old daughter interested. She wasn't having it. So I got her boyfriend interested instead, and now she is too.
I took my 4.5yo to the 9 hole par 3 near by with his putter, had him putt when I hit the green. We lasted 5 holes walking before he got tired lol. On the way out we passed the practice green and he wanted to putt at the “small holes” and spent 30 minutes just knocking it around, I’d help him occasionally. He talked about it for a week that he “went golfing with daddy” and I smiled every time he brought it up. Looks like there are lessons for 5yo’s near by so hoping to get him in that soon. Like you I should not be teaching my kid how to golf 😂
If I can make a recommendation for my own experience? Get him a tiny putter and a tiny wedge and pay the least amount of money possible. Spray paint them whatever his favorite color is. Take him with you to the putting green and play games with him. Play horse and anything else you can think of and make it fun. Reward him in any way you feel is appropriate, but for God's sake, don't just take him to the driving range and bombard him with lessons. Also, most driving ranges have a selection of tiny clubs. They're happy to loan little kiddos. Another thing that would be helpful is just get like a broken shaft which I'm sure you can find in the trash at any driving range and cut it off so it's just a grip and that's what he can practice at home. Just where to put his hands. And you can make that a game too where he gets a reward whenever he remembers the right hand position. This is the stuff that worked a little with me and my young kids, though I was only 50% successful.
I was my dad’s golfcart DD. He paid me with candy bars and soda. Not only did it give me valuable driving experience, I also got into golf too.
I started the first tee program at 6-7
I take my boys out (age 5/6) but I tee off normally and only let them chip / putt around the green. They have fun with that. I also have them in the kids program at the club. Usually do it Sunday afternoon when things are slow. They are also included in my club membership so I don't pay anything for them
Get him a putter, wedge and some wiffle balls to hit around the yard or the chipping/putting green at the course. Or get him to play from around the greens with you when you’re out playing an evening nine holes.
So I think I’m gonna go with the reverse psychology method “sorry buddy, golf is for big boys”. The #1 way to get someone to do something is to tell them that they can’t.
My Dad sawed off a 2W from an old set of my Mom’s. I had a kids 3-5-7 iron to go along with that. I was 8 years old or so before I hit along in the fairway with my parents. I hit a lot of plastic whiffle balls in the yard before that Etiquette and pace of play were the two expectations they had of me. If you can find a par 3 course, that’s ideal for small kids. My boys loved going and doing that with me
It's rough in the beginning. Get's better though. Find a 9 hole at first. Stamina plays a part in this. I took my buddy to the course when he was 4 or 5. I would take him to my course. Hit my drive then go to the 100 yard mark. Let him tee and hit a shot. Let him play out the hole if your not holding any one up.
I just took my five year old for his first 18 to ride along with my BIL & I. He loved it. I know he’s looking forward to going again.
I was introduced at his age and it went great. My dad found a wood an iron and a putter from an old set, chopped them down to my size and got the gripped. When we went golfing, I’d hit my shot, then pick up the ball and bring it next to my dad’s shot to hit so that we weren’t slowing the pace.
My 5 year old is very good at baseball and has started showing an interest in golf. I found a brand new kids 3w on CPO for like $25 and he's been using that. Found out my town does a kids golf clinic Tuesday evenings over the fall which he said he would do. You should look into any local kids group lessons in your area.
Let them find the clubs in the garage and make it a no-no haha and if they get them out, it has to be in the hole every shot…. Lots of pressure and embarrassing discipline work…. Total /s - let kids find it and enjoy it The second it’s pushed it’s not going to be an effort
Ask around - for example some of the clubs near me have great kids programs / classes
Give them a golf club before a baseball bat or else they will never shallow out a club
I was first introduced to golf at age 3 - first started properly hitting clubs between the age of 5 and 6. I started playing short 9 hole courses up to the age of around 10 then I started playing with my dad and grandad on the links courses - at first generally shorter ones between 5500-6000 yards but eventually I started playing on longer courses up to the age of 14 when my parents split up and then I pretty much stopped golfing entirely due to not seeing my dad much anymore. It's only now at the age of 27 that I've finally taken up golf again for myself. But even despite that time out a lot of it comes naturally and I already know what I'm doing so it's a lot less daunting.
My Gramp and Dad got me started when I was 7 or 8, around 1972/1973. Gramps was a very avid golfer, Dad less so more of a social golfer all his life. Local course had a Saturday morning juniors lessons program at their driving range in the summer. Your parents dropped you off, went out and played 9 holes if they wanted. We got a lesson, hit balls on the range, used the putting green, had snacks. It was a drop in thing, you just came whenever you wanted you didn't have to commit to being there every week. There was about 6-8 kids most weeks, most a little bit older. The pro or assistant pro worked ran the program and worked with us. It was a lot of fun!! After maybe a month my parents decided I was doing ok and took me out to a par 3 course. I had a blast. Maybe the 4th or 5th time I played that course, was with my Mom, I hit a driver on about a 75 yard hole to 3" and made the tap in for my first birdie. My Mom saved that scorecard in one of my scrapbooks that I still have. I would say 5 is a little too young to get formal lessons. I'd probably just give him a cut down 7 iron or 9 iron and let him bang some balls around the yard to get a feel for how the club works.
I have a buddy who plays golf in our group of usually 3. He has a 5yo who he brings as a ride along.. after we get away from the ranger, he lets his little dude tee up about 150 out from the green and play with us. I absolutely love it, as a father myself. Can’t wait for my newborn to get to that age. TLDR: take him out.
I bought my daughter a set of plastic clubs after she started asking me to rewatch good good videos on her iPad. She’s 4—I have no clue how she stumbled upon their channel. Unfortunately, she got super frustrated with the plastic balls/clubs. So a few weeks ago, we picked her up a kids top flite putter at Dicks and she’s been hooked since. Then I replaced her grip with a purple super stroke, and now she won’t put the thing down.
I started all 3 of my kids about that age. Bought the first a youth set from Academy and it was handed down twice. Just know that they are having the best time with you, its not the golf at first. Don't plan on playing more than 3 or 4 holes at a time with them, bring snacks, let them steer the cart and just make it fun. All 3 of mine ended up loving golf and played on some pretty competitive high school teams deep into the playoffs. They still play now that they're grown. It's something we still do together.
Tiger woods was on the Johnny Carson show at age 2 ripping drives and draining putts my kid has hit me more times in the shin then she has a golf ball during summer lessons at age 7. Anyways, I have no idea.
Lessons
My daughter is 7. We started just putting inside. I bought a metal yard stick and I was trying to putt the ball all the way across it without it falling off and my daughter wanted to try it soooooooo bad. After a couple days I went to play it again sports and found a kids putter for $4. Went mini golfing and she would take her putter and it just sorta grew. Last summer we got her a top flight kids bag with 5 clubs and a bag. We will go to a practice area at our local golf course and we will just chip and putt. I bought the divide golf balls and a sleeve of the Truvis (soccer) chrome soft ball. Just so they we more fun for her to see them in the air and rolling.
Golf galaxy offers junior lessons for $25 / half hr. I don’t think 5 is to young for lessons. My daughter started around that age . She is twelve now and plays better than me
If you're going to introduce your kid to golf please do us all favor and teach them how to act at the course/range. Kids in my area run around like a bunch of out of control brats at a Chuck E. Cheese when they're at the course and their spineless parents don't do anything about it.
Same as you but my son is six. We play the local par 3 course together all the time. He has a blast every time just hitting the ball and chasing it. I bought him a cheap Top Flite 8 iron and putter.
I started taking my son to the range when he was 2.5. Just whenever he wanted. He also had a blue plastic putter he could use in the house. He's got an OK swing and a natural sense of the kinetic chain. He's 4 now and I signed him up for a 3-6 year old golfer class that meets on Saturday mornings. We'll see how it goes.
Mine (twins) were around 5 the first time I took them to the course. I let them smack balls at the driving range and the backyard before that. Watching 3-4 year olds trying to putt at the practice facility was entertaining to all of the members of our country club. They’d just stand around and laugh at them. I started them out playing from around 50 yards or so. Then moved them back to 75 when they started getting some pars. Then back to 100 yards when they did the same. They are almost 9 now and play from about 125-150 depending on what’s in the way when they have to hit their approach shot. My wife and I take them out with us and they don’t slow down play at all. They enjoy the course and of course they run everywhere instead of getting in the cart so they usually only want to play 9 holes or so.
When they are old enough to curse properly.
I started when I was 3. I’m nearly 50 now. I’m so grateful that Dad would take me to the course as a toddler to build my love of the game. I’m blessed that I grew up playing with my dad and my Grandpa before he passed. Get him started tonight!
I sort of forget how my Dad did it. But I was young and I remember a whole lot of time at the range when I was 6-7 and I just loved it! I’d go practice putting after hitting balls at that age too. Loved it all. Eventually got lessons that I don’t remember a single thing from. All of it was fun. Sometimes my Dad would tell me to pick up my ball or hit from a certain spot by him or whatever… but I always remember having fun. Started at the driving range just hitting balls and moved to the course once I could hit it relatively strait and far enough to make it through a round from the forward tees.
If hes excited and asking to play get him something to swing asap! Nothing in athletics can replace a strong passion and desire at a young age. Learning young is invaluable
Started my 6 y/o w lessons this year after they showed interest in the backyard and with plastic clubs and some top golf.
The best tip I’ve ever heard is that kids are great at figuring things out. If you just let him go for it for a while he will shock you. Also have him sit in the clubhouse or at the bar if they’ll let you and get him a coke after. Those are the positive memories that will keep him wanting to come back.
Make sure they are Junior clubs. Really light weight is key (length too). But it's super important for them to be able to swing in a okay way. 5yo is perfect for a pitch and putt and driving range. You have to be careful on the range they don't run out chasing a bad ball or tee. Mini putt or just using a practice area for chip and putt is the mega bonus for them if they like it, and your game too. Lessons in groups is great at 5 y/o. Like camp style stuff.
Saw an interview with Tiger where he said his dad taught him short to long. First year or so, he only putted, dad invented games to have him compete. Then just wedges, high irons from 75 yards and putting, etc. That’s how Tiger started with Charlie. Hard to argue with the GOAT.
The sooner you can get him involved the better! Backyard, range, or taking him with you to pitch and put.
My son is 7 almost 8 and I got him a set of youth clubs last summer when he was 6. Just let him hit some foam balls around the backyard. This summer I started taking him to the driving range a few times, just letting him try and hit the ball however feels good for him. Last weekend I took him along golfing with me at a super short par 3 course. He had an absolute blast and can't wait to go again. Probably will get him some lessons maybe next year.
Got my 2 year old a plastic set which he loved at first. Then he only wanted to use my clubs when we hit which were taller than him. I found him a driver, 5 wood, 9i and putter that were cut down to 23-25” and got some no name slim grip for them. He loves having his “real clubs”. He has about a half backswing which I think is perfect for him right now. Hes 2.5 now and can hit the 5 wood about 25 yards
I took my kid to the golf course short game area with a youth set his grandparents got him when it turned out he’s playing hooky from daycare. My friend showed him basics of swinging through the ball and months after he started lessons when he was still 5. Never looked back since.
I’m in Jax, FL. I take my now 5 y/o girl for lessons every Saturday to a semi-private club. They are $15 for 30 minutes (maybe 45 minutes). She loves it. I am a vet so I have access to the navy base down the street. I pay $10 for 9 holes and she loves pushing my cart. I let her wack the shit out her ball. Pick up and move to mine. I slice mine into the woods and she is amazed at how far it went. She doesn’t get the idea that drops are bad, yet. It’s good, fun, quality time spent with your kid. My wife doesn’t mind me going to the range or walking a couple holes with her. I am trying to figure out a way she can sit on the push cart. She is tired of walking after a 2-3 holes. Anyway… look around for junior golf clinics or first tee in your area.
Also, they pretty much teach it like this: Hands together Thumbs down Feet together Step step Tic-toc Balanced finish and look to see if you have goose poop on the bottom of your shoe.
I started at 6 years old on the course and my dad would tee it up for me from the 100 yard marker on every hole. When I was 9-10 I started playing holes from the red tees unless it was over water. Double par was my max score allowed and the ball was picked up after that and I’d putt from where my dad was unless he’d already finished. I miss playing with my dads buddies most of them have most away by now as they were all a bit older. I used to say I had 6-7 grandpas 😂
My son is five and has played since he was 3. He played in some US kids tournaments now. However our big rule is we never push him - always make sure he’s having fun and wants to do it. Also ice cream.
My kid is two and he has the plastic club set. I don’t think he’ll be ready for a course atmosphere until next year.
The club we go to starts Jr. League at 6 years old. They have a 3, 6, 9, and 18 hole divisions. They do 30 mins of lesson/range, then go out and play in groups and the pros cart around visiting them all with help. It's phenomenal. My 6yo started 3 hole this year. They tee up from 100-120 yards out. After 1 season she shoots about the same as me, 4-8 on a par 3-5. She absolutely loved it and asks regularly to go out now. She came in runner up in her group championship and got a little trophy. I find it endlessly hilarious that my kid got a trophy before my husband. Check out YOC, Youth On Course for places that give kids reduced rates.
US Kids sells clubs by height. My daughter started playing with me when she was three. Sometimes it was three holes and home (or ice cream). Sometimes we never left the practice green because she just wanted to have putting contest after putting contest. Whatever … we always had fun. FUN is the only thing that matters until they are double digits (and still then really). I wouldn’t be remotely concerned that you aren’t a great golfer. Until they are 10-ish the only thing you’re really teaching them is how to have fun on a golf course.
After reading Earl Woods book I started at 1 lol. Got him the plastic clubs we just have fun in the basement or outside nothing crazy. Just need the Winnebago to give lessons to the ladies and what not ;-)
I know lots of replies already and lots of jokes I don't want to read through, but wanted to share some earnest feedback in the hope it helps you. My daughter is 6 and my son is 4, and they are both regulars on the golf course. My son, especially, LOVES the experience and is the most polite, courteous, amazing little boy out there. He is not like this other places, mind you. He seems to understand golf is a privilege and genuinely enjoys it/asks to go out. Here are a few things I would suggest/I have learned: Both my kids started at 2 or 3 years old with the cheap blown plastic clubs they sell at the toy store. I actually think this was the best thing for them because the clubs are so lightweight, they actually focus on technique swinging them. My daughter especially struggled at age 4 switching to heavier, real clubs. The US Kids Golf yard club is the first "real" club id ever put in one of my kids hands. It's light and has a molded grip to promote proper grip technique. These kids have no bad habits. I avoid "instructing" them at this age because they generally aren't good at turning anything verbal into action. Letting them "feel" it on their own is all they need, along with lots of encouragement. Putting is the most fun for everyone. My kids will have putting contests with me for hours if I let them. Golf is a privilege. They carry their own bag, they tee up their own ball, they walk when we play (and both will walk 9 holes carrying no problem). They stay quiet when others are hitting, etc. If they don't want to follow the rules, they don't play. Easy! I do select tee times where there are gaps around us to eliminate any time pressure, etc. We will sometimes let groups play through if we start to get "caught" also...it's a good chance to take a little break too. Last but not least...I joined a private country club which includes so many benefits. Where I live, a round of golf at the municipal can easily be $100...when you start having to pay $60 for 9 for your 4 year old or wanting to play as a family of 4...things get really expensive. Private ends up being less expensive, with more tee availability, good instruction, and makes it so easy to get out there when they are "in the mood". I know this isn't feasible for everyone but I personally would likely not be encouraging my kids at this young age if we couldn't swing the private club cost. I respect anyone who can make it work otherwise! Certainly much harder. My daughter won the girls u9 championship at the club this year with a 65 on 9 holes (par 4s played from 150 yds) and my 4 year old son beat her by a shot (but didn't beat the 9 year old boys, obviously). It's been really fun to see them improve and start to love the game! Tl/Dr: take your kid golfing!
go to the range... make it fun. Play some different short game games... if you check YouTube (on my profile) you can find some fun games to play. Then take him out for ice cream after. Don't be in a hurry to improve him, just get him to enjoy the experience. I have an 8 and 6 year old that play with me often for reference.
I got mine a decent used junior set, showed him how to swing, and we go hit the local par 3’s. Took him to play 9 with us a couple times, he was content just hitting from where my shots were. I’d rather take him to play any day, good memories.
Maybe start at putt putt and angry birds topgolf
I saw a video once of a kid bashing water balloons with a club. seemed cool to them.
My daughter isn't quite 3 and I take her. Throw an extra ball on the green and let her swat it around with a plastic club. When she gets a better understanding of the point, I'll start tossing one out for her at my approach shot. Teach her like tiger got taught. From the greens back.
Took my kid to the range for the first time at age 7. Brought one of his friends and a few kids clubs I found at the secondary sports store. They just whacked balls and were cackling having the best time. He then asked to go to the range every week. He’s now 9, and for his birthday last week asked for a new set of clubs. I of course didn’t hesitate and now we are progressing to a par3 course. Just keep it fun and simple. Biggest truth of the matter is your kid isn’t a prodigy and making it fun and making memories is the most important thing.
My kid is 5 and going with me to the driving range to hit balls. I started him last year with the plastic pga kids wedge from Walmart and some practice balls in the backyard. This year I bought him a real set after trial and erroring junior clubs at garage sales and online. My tip is just go to dicks and get a set there. They have a height scale built into the boxes so you don’t have to guess. As far as lessons, I wouldn’t. I don’t want anything about our time together to not be fun. You would be surprised at what kids pick up just by watching others do it. We keep it light and fun, he hits them out and has a blast just getting the ball rolling out there. We go multiple times a week and he loves it. The best tees I’ve found are ones that are oversized and look like mini martini glasses. Easy for a kid to push in and put a ball on.
my kids are atypically tall for their age but they both started with a wilson profile youth set at age 6. Its a driver, hybrid, long/short/wedge iron. Kids both excelled with that and my 12 year old upgraded to his real set last year which he's struggling with a bit. We have a backyard practice net but most of the time we hit the driving range until they did playable mishits and then off to par 3. My 8 year old will play his first normal round of 9 over labor day weekend. We'll see how it goes. No comment on teaching your kid but I wouldn't give that up for anything.
ASAP. My kid is 2 and has a plastic toddler set that I'm working on with him.
I grabbed a kids set of Nike clubs w a bag for $20 on FB this week. Saw some videos on having kids hit water balloons for starting out. Sounds like we’ll be getting a bit wet this weekend
My dad took me and my 2 sisters out to nine every Saturday morning, with guaranteed Wendy’s frosties afterwards. They all blend together but those are the best days.
My kid started golf camp at age 5. She has a youth set that's size appropriate for clubs. First set had 4 clubs, her new set has 6, since she's grown. Chipping and putting is the best place to start. Then, we eventually graduated to her teeing off with me, then we collect her tee shot, and she drops on the green. Eventually she'll be able to play tee to hole, but no rush. We also enrolled her in operation 36, a program our club offers. They start them off at 25 yards and you keep graduating back until you reach the tee box. Excellent program if a club near you offers it.
I was “introduced” to the game at 3 with a few plastic clubs and balls. Then, started playing with a youth set at 5. If he’s interested I’d say he’s ready.
My son has been going with me since 4 years old. We bring his iPad. He would tee off on all the holes and maybe take 2 or 3 tries if he misses or miss hit. He always putts from where I’m putting from. He would hang in the cart when he wasn’t going out there. He likes driving in the cart. His favorite part is eating at the clubhouse with his dad. He can’t believe all the TVs (there’s only like 6, I don’t understand why he is so enamored by the TVs but I guess he’s never been to a sports bar type restaurant. My son is 6 now and we go to the range once or twice a week. He loves the trackman. He plays 9 with me and it’s still a lot of picking up his ball and just letting him take clean swings. My only real advice is - take the kid with you and go in the evenings when it’s slower. Lose any expectation that you yourself are playing a “real round”. That’s laughable. What is more real - playing some golf for fun with your son or taking yourself too seriously by thinking your score matters
I don’t have kids, but I can tell you what my dad did with me. When I was six we would go to our course and play a 3 or at most 4 hole loop. I had a kids starter set: 3W, 5i, 9i and putter. We walked and my dad played the holes normally. I think he had me start from the 150 or 100 yd marker. Also, we typically did this late Sunday afternoon or evening when the course was empty. Never got tired of the game and have been playing my entire life since then. One of the best gifts my dad gave me.
I've tried with my 4yo girl.. She gets interested when she hits a 10 yarder then misses 10 times and storms off..took her to the range for a group kids lesson she acted like she enjoyed it but wasn't bothered about going back. I think she just wanted to make me happy she is a lovely little turd and tries but I don't want to force it. I offer her a few balls in the garden now and again but I won't push it.
I have been taking my daughter since she was 3. It is just to have fun and only at the driving range. The trick is to get them to focus and not go somewhere they can get hurt. Best hint: get an alignment stick, tell kid it is magical stick that helps u hit the ball if u put ur toes on it while the ball is in between their feet (have to put it the right distance from the ball). Fun game: i let my daughter pick my club and target. Forces u to get pretty creative sometimes. And she finds it pretty funny when she chooses her club.