As a parent, you will do anything for your child. You have introduced them to the greatest game ever played, you have enrolled them in a junior golf program, you are willing to sacrifice your time to bring them to practice and tournaments, you have got them fitted for equipment, and you probably even spend some nights researching the game to figure out how you can help them when they can’t be with their coaches. You are doing so many things right and you are the most important person in the sporting development of your child!
Here are some tips on how to be the best parent caddie you can be
Keep the emphasis on the enjoyment of the game. Adults may be able to push through and do things because of a result they have in mind. Children do things simply because they are fun, interesting and engaging. If you find that your child is fighting you on practice time, it’s time to change up the routine. Play games, set up fun challenges, try trick shots, invite their friends along, or join in on their practice time. Your number one job is to create a safe and fun learning environment for them.
Praise your child on effort, not outcomes. If we only praise the triumphs, children begin to think that winning is what matters most. They begin to only feel valued when they do well, and that winning is what matters most. Teach your child to challenge themselves, to be patient, to follow through on commitments, to work hard and to be a good person. And, of course, always end every day with: “I love to watch you play”
As a parent-caddy, the ability to play without fear is probably the greatest gift you can give your child. Think back to when your child first picked up the game. They weren’t afraid to miss a shot and when they did, they simply tried again. You want your child to play aggressively and with confidence. Don’t give your child a detailed critique of their swing after every shot. Allow them to make mistakes without fear of repercussions. How your child performs on the course at age 9 has absolutely no bearing on their future. How you react to their play has every bearing. Choose your words wisely!
Move at a pace that works for your child. This pace should provide both a challenging and enjoyable experience. Your child isn’t worrying about college golf scholarships, nor should they be. As they get older, they may begin to think about things like college golf or playing professionally. Right now, they play because they simply enjoy it. Don’t push things. Provide them with a comfortable yet challenging environment where they are tested but not frustrated.
Remember what motivates your child, not what motivates you. Yes, they may get excited about winning a trophy but that soon fades. Yes, they may cry when they lose a match but those tears are gone by morning. I ask kids on a daily basis why they love to play golf and their answers are nearly always the same, 1. because it is fun and 2. because I get to play with my friends and family.
You are the most important person in your child’s golf journey. If you do your part correctly, then your child will have fun, learn faster, and perform better.
You want your child to look back on their junior golf experience with a smile. Your job is to provide them with an experience that will make them want to play the game forever, an experience that will allow their passion and self-motivation to grow, and an experience that will allow them to own this game for themselves. With passion and enjoyment, you will be surprised by how far your child will go to achieve their dreams….Imagine the possibilities then…
Michelle
The wonderful photo at the top of this article features father and daughter team – Rusty and Dixie Crain.
Editor’s Note: Michelle Holmes leads our team of junior golf specialists and growing coverage of junior golf. Michelle’s extensive teaching experience and fun games-based approach introduce youngsters to a lifetime love of golf. If you have questions or suggestions or if you would like us to highlight the junior golfer in your life, please contact Michelle via our Junior Golf page.
Michelle Holmes is an LPGA Teaching Professional and a U.S Kids Golf Master Teacher. Michelle has dedicated her career to growing the game of golf and was named a “Top 50 Growth Of The Game Teaching Professional” by Golf Range Magazine.
The mission of the Michelle Holmes School of Golf is to create experiences that will encourage kids to play the game forever.
To learn more, please visit www.michelleholmesgolf.com and follow Michelle online on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook
