Golf lessons are only the starting point. What happens between lessons often makes the biggest difference in how kids grow in the game. With the right goals, practice, and encouragement, junior golfers can thrive.
Set simple, fun goals
Kids stay motivated when they can see progress. Instead of chasing a perfect swing, focus on small wins:
- Sink 5 short putts in a row.
- Land 3 chips inside a circle.
- Hit 7 balls in a row off the tee.
Quick, measurable goals build confidence and make practice enjoyable.
Keep practice fun
Practice doesn’t have to mean long, serious sessions. A few games can keep energy high:
- Putting contests – who can get closest to a coin.
- Short game circle – chip into a target zone.
- Straightest drive challenge – keep the ball between markers.
Mixing in fun drills helps kids associate golf with play, not pressure.
Parents’ role
- Golfing parents: Join practice, but resist the urge to over-coach. Leave instruction to the pro.
- Non-golfing parents: Support is still vital. Celebrate effort, not just results, and be your child’s biggest fan.
More than golf
Some of the best memories come from simply being together—riding in a cart, walking late afternoon holes, or enjoying fresh air outside. Golf is the excuse; family time is the reward.
Competing in junior events
When kids are ready, junior tournaments such as U.S. Kids Golf provide a positive, age-appropriate entry into competition. These events keep courses short, groups friendly, and the atmosphere fun. Playing in tournaments helps kids learn how to handle nerves, meet peers, and see how their practice translates on the course. It’s not about winning—it’s about growing through the experience.
Where I teach
I work at Sugarbush Golf Club in Davison, MI. Our junior programs are built to meet these expectations—qualified coaches, fun group settings, and space for kids to grow into more serious players. If you’re nearby, I’d love to see your family out on the course.