Choosing The Right Summer Golf Camp For Your Budding Golf Pro

Kids of all ages look forward to summertime as a break from school and a time to play. However, many parents find keeping their kids entertained and engaged in positive activities during the summer months to be a challenge. Summer golf camps provide a way to keep children safe and occupied while engaging them in activities that boost self-confidence and promote a passion for athletics. Whether you have a future golf professional on your hands or a child with an interest in learning the basics, the right camp is within your reach.

Golf is one of the most common pastimes in America, and an incredibly popular focus in camps for young children and teens. There are many geared towards a variety of skill levels and age groups. Some focus on teaching the fundamentals of the sport, and emphasize fun and exercise rather than competition. This is perfect for beginners as well as kids who are interested in playing "just for fun."

Many children, however, are very serious about the sport and want a program that will help them not only excel for school athletic programs, but also have dreams of a future on the pro tour. For these children, it is crucial that the camp you choose to send your son or daughter to be run by golfers and coaches who understand what is necessary to succeed in the sport and are able to motivate your child. To attend a top notch facility, you may be sending your child to another city or state and a discussion with your son or daughter to ensure they are comfortable with this is important.

One thing all camps should provide is ample supervision and a generous staff to child ratio. Pick out a few potential junior golf facilities and do some careful research, even visit them, if possible, before making any reservations for your budding golf pro. Make sure they are clean and comfortable when you arrive. Is the staff friendly and inviting? Do they provide you with helpful information? Are they engaging your child in conversation as well as you? Inquire about the ratio of counselors to campers. Ask about procedures for emergencies and what facilities they have for caring for injured children.

Of course, asking about the course and its upkeep is important, as is discussing your son or daughter's skill level and goals to be sure there are instructors on the staff that can help your child improve on skills. You need to know what equipment your child would be responsible for bringing (clubs, tees, balls, etc.) to prepare for any additional costs you may incur.

Another matter to consider when selecting a golf camp for your child is the duration of the program. Overnight facilities provide a more immersive experience thanks to intensive, focused training, fewer distractions, and being surrounded by children and adults that share a passion for the game. This is especially true for those sessions that are three to five weeks in duration. However, in these extended overnight programs, it is also important for the camp to offer other activities in addition to golf. Be sure to check out how much free time is scheduled as well as the types of activities that are available.

For younger children or kids who are less focused on high-level competition, shorter duration overnight camps or even a local day program may be a better and more affordable option.

If you are interested in a local facility, visit a local pro shop, sporting goods store or even the Chamber of Commerce, to see if they have any information. Many area park districts, YMCAs, and colleges have junior golf camps that meet several times a week for the duration of the summer. If travel is a possibility, an internet search is important; as is a search of golf websites and organizations to find out if there are any accredited facilities for training. This research and discussion with your child is sure to help make a stellar summer experience.

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