In Switzerland, some golf schools take children from the age of four, in sessions designed for them. The starting age varies from club to club: ask which group suits your child’s development and enthusiasm.
Trying golf from the age of four
The Golf Club de Vuissens welcomes juniors from the age of four. This Swiss example gives you a reference point; each club sets the conditions for its own lessons.
A first session might involve target games, moving around and a few simple swings. Playing a course also means following instructions, staying in safe areas and respecting the pace of other players.
A trial session lets you see whether your child enjoys the activity and feels at ease in the group. Wait until they have had that first try before signing them up for a longer period.
Choosing the group and the equipment
Ask how the groups are organised: age, experience, group size and length of sessions. Check whether clubs can be borrowed and whether the equipment suits the child’s size.
Ask, too, where parents fit in during the lesson. The coach needs to be able to give instructions clearly. If you go along, ask where to wait and how to help without piling on instructions.
Following your child’s lead
At first, your child can learn to aim at a target area, roll a ball and follow the safety rules. Leave the technical steps to the coach.
Avoid comparing distances or scores with those of another child. Ask instead what your child enjoyed and what they would like to do again. How often they go is something to decide with the school, according to their interest.
Comfortable clothing suited to the venue is enough to start with. Our guide explains how to dress a child starting golf.