How to get (and keep) your kids interested in golf this summer

Break out the sunscreen – summer is here! There’s no better way to enjoy the warm temperatures and beautiful sunshine than out on a golf course.
Although it may be difficult to find time for the game with jam-packed schedules, family vacations and the like, PGA Junior Golf Camp Director Brian Jacobs has a few ideas to get your kids excited about playing the game.

As a lead instructor for Golf Channel Academy and Brian Jacobs Golf at Ridgemont Country Club in Rochester, New York, Jacobs draws from his experiences as an accomplished player, caddie and PGA Professional on the lesson tee and knows that summer is primetime for golf camps where youngsters learn the game.

The question for parents the next few months is how they get their child interested in attending a camp that could spur some interest in not just golf, but playing the game for a lifetime.

Below are three ways Jacobs believes parents can answer that question, making this summer a season full of memories on the course!

1. Play golf together

Summer is the ideal time to get out on a weekend and go experience golf as a family. By showing interest that you care about golf, your son or daughter may do just the same.

“Taking your son or daughter to the lesson tee for instruction together is a great way to show passion and love for the game,” says Jacobs. “You’re able to spend quality time together.”

RELATED: How to get your child started in and loving golf

2. Golf is fun!

It’s finally nice out, so why stay inside all day? For some, sunshine and 75 degrees won’t last year round. This is the time of year to go have some fun! 

“Golf is a great summer activity because it involves movement, learning and fun,” adds Jacobs. “At our PGA Junior Golf Camps, we do LOTS of games, making sure each child blends in with others in a friendly, supportive environment.”

Adding small games can make a big difference for a youngster. It keeps them interested, makes them smile, and most importantly, allows them to have a good time!

“We learn and we play as teams and individuals from appropriate yardages based on skill set,” Jacobs says. “We give LOTS of high fives and praise, too!”

3. Progress makes perfect

The time when a child isn’t participating in summer camp may be even more important than the time they spend at camp. Jacobs believes that keeping them active and practicing what they learned will also keep them interested.

“Play games with the kids and make sure they are set at the right yardages so they can improve and grow,” says Jacobs. “I’d also recommend that parents bring the child back to the Camp Instructor for continuation of instruction. He/she knows the child best, and can keep them loving the game and improving.”

You can learn more about PGA Junior Golf Camps, held at more than 90 facilities nationwide throughout the summer, by visiting PGAJuniorGolfCamps.com or calling (888) PGA-PLAY.