Young Children and Golf

By Brent Morrison

As we move into spring on the west coast of Canada, many parents begin to enquire about programs for their youngsters through our junior golf academy. A seasonal approach to golf training is appropriate for younger children (4-8 yrs) who should be encouraged to participate in a wide variety of sports to develop physical literacy. However, children 9 yrs+ will benefit tremendously from structured long term programs developed specifically to coincide with natural developmental windows for motor learning.

It is commonly recognized in sport that it takes 10 years, or 10,000 hours, to develop an elite level athlete. Just as there are ages when children are most receptive to language development, there are windows of opportunity for children to make marked progress in their sports. The development window for peak motor learning is generally from 9-13, although there will be individual variances based on such factors as early/late maturation and peak height and growth velocity. This means that technical information delivered during this period is more easily assimilated by the student, with long term results. Many golf professionals can attest to how much faster an adult golfer who learned to play during this critical period can regain technique after years away from the game in comparison to the golfer who learns to play as an adult.

Does this mean that when a developmental window "closes" that training becomes ineffective? Certainly not, as we continue to learn new skills and grow throughout our lifetimes. However, receiving the proper training at the right time will result in more thorough and permanent skill acquisition.

It is also important to recognize that learning is "state-dependent". The more comfortable the student is with the instructor and the group, the better the opportunity for enhanced learning. Instruction programs need to be both technical and fun, with competition introduced to complement training intervals.

Although golf is an individual sport, participating in a golf academy program and experiencing a team culture of success helps impart students with a sense of belonging. The need for group affiliation becomes increasingly important after age nine; group golf lessons can help support the development of the child socially as well as physically and mentally.

The Brent Morrison Golf Academy is located at Pheasant Glen Golf Resort, 1025 Qualicum Road, Qualicum Beach, B.C. V9K 1M5. (250) 752-8786. For more information on instruction programs for adults and juniors, contact the Academy office.

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