Here’s 10 Reasons You Should Get Your Kids Into Golf

From new friends to daily exercise to lessons in how to behave both on and off the course, golf benefits children in so many ways. Plus it’s a great way for families to spend quality time together enjoying the outdoors and having fun. Here are a few reasons why you should get your kids into golf.

1. Golf is Co-ed FUN!

Golf camps and other introductory programs know they have to make the experience nonstop fun or kids will quickly lose interest. Between swing lessons, instructors play silly games, tell jokes and dispense snacks. Even whiffed shots are met with exclaims of “Great Swing!”

2. Golf Teaches Good Manners

In golf, each player acts as his own referee. Kids are taught that fair play means always treating playing partners with consideration and sometimes even calling a penalty on themselves. Golf is a game that places honesty and proper etiquette even above winning.

3. Golf is Great Outdoor Exercise

With childhood obesity having nearly tripled in the past 30 years, parents are looking for ways to distract kids from video games and smart phones. Golf, a game played outdoors in a beautiful and natural setting, can become the healthy habit of a lifetime. A 150-pound adult burns 350 calories and walks more than 10,000 steps during a typical round. Plus golf can instill an appreciation for nature.

4. Golf For Kids is a Bargain

Compared to hockey and some other sports, junior golf is a fantastic deal. Costs are kept low in an effort to promote the game’s future growth. Introductory golf camps even provide free clubs and balls. And at Deerhurst Resort, juniors 18 and under play for free on both the Highlands and Lakeside courses when accompanied by an adult.

5. Golf Helps Kids Succeed in Other Sports

Kids who master the hand-eye coordination demanded by the golf swing enjoy a big advantage when they play other sports. For instance, a slap shot and a baseball swing require much the same timing, coiled backswing and follow-through.

6. Golf Offers Life Lessons

Maddeningly frustrating at times, golf teaches kids that life’s bounces don’t always go their way. They learn to keep each shot in perspective, manage their emotions, and keep a positive attitude through the highs and lows of the game.

7. Golf is a Game You Play with People, not Against

Friendships made through golf often last a lifetime. Kids develop social skills by interacting with their peers and the golfers of all ages and backgrounds they meet. Played around the world, golf will also serve as an icebreaker and calling card during their future travels.

8. Golf Could Lead to Higher Education

Who knows? Your kid might prove to be a prodigy. The earlier your child starts, the greater his or her chances of being offered a golf scholarship at a prestigious university. At any rate, it’s a pleasant daydream.

9. Golf is a Safe Sport

Unlike hockey, baseball and soccer, golf is a non-contact sport. Golf course injuries of any kind are exceptionally rare. Indeed, it’s hard to imagine a safer, more positive or uplifting environment for kids.

10. Golf Promotes Family Time

Families build lasting memories when they golf together. A family tee time is a shared opportunity to bond even as kids grow up and develop other interests. Golf offers the gift of quality time with the people you love the most.

Convinced yet? See you on the courses!

Posted August 5, 2015 by Brian Kendall