I promised myself that when I was a parent I’d never force my children to play any sport or musical instrument they didn’t want to play. However, I am a firm believer that every child should be given the gift of swimming and the gift of golf.
Why golf? If your child can hit a ball and knows the basic fundamentals to enjoy a variation of the sport then you are giving them the gift of a lifetime amongst so many other skills. Swimming is life saving. Golf is life enhancing.
A Game For Life And Friends For Life
Golf is a game where life itself is the only shelf life. The game simply tones down as you age, and now there are so many accepted variations of golf to choose from.
When I first started playing as an 11 year-old, golf gave me an escape from a pretty tough start in secondary school. It gave me a support network of friends who didn’t judge.
Early on, golf teaches respect, manners and engagement. Golf taught me how to socialise and talk to adults. as well as older junior members. It taught me patience and perseverance.
Finn has fun on the practice ground
(Image credit: Katie Dawkins)
Quality Family Time
My earliest memory of playing golf was a fourball with my parents and my brother. Golf gave me quality time with my family. For many years, my mum and I took part in the annual mothers and daughters foursomes competition and we have many special memories.
Physical And Mental Benefits
My children love football and theatre, but rest assured they can both hit a ball. I have drip fed them range sessions, simulator sessions and crazy golf. The rise of the screens on ranges has really helped my kids to engage with the game.
If your child is already chanting, ‘Golf is boring,’ it’s important to find the version of golf they will enjoy, such as heading out onto a par-3 course or trying FlingGolf.
My daughter watched me filming some garden golf content and said, “Give me a go.” She popped a few in the upturned umbrella and I saw a spark, so this summer we will do more bitesize golf to continue the spark.
Katie Dawkins’ daughter Libby takes on some garden practice
(Image credit: Katie Dawkins)
Teaches Co-Ordination And Balance
My kids are sporty, but what if your children aren’t? I reckon that every junior lesson I have ever given, I’ve had at least one…
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