Kids Golf Etiquette

After signing my five-year-old son up for a “try-every-sport-under-the-sun” summer camps, he came home at the end and announced with great conviction that golf was his favorite.

Determined to nurture this newfound passion, I started researching after-school and weekend golf programs for the fall — only to discover that they cost about as much as a small car. Given that I’m already funding taekwondo, ultimate ninja training, and piano lessons, I decided it was time for a more… budget-friendly approach.

So, we made it a family affair. We found a wonderful coach at our local golf club who offered us family golf lessons at a very reasonable rate. It’s been such a fun (and occasionally humbling) adventure learning together.

Of course, golf isn’t exactly a “pick-it-up-in-a-weekend” kind of sport. It takes time — and lots of practice — to build that smooth, muscle-memorized swing. So we’ve been spending our weekends at the driving range, whacking away and pretending to look professional.

Somewhere between the divots and the giggles, I realized that while I was teaching my kids how to swing, I didn’t actually know much about golf’s history or etiquette myself. Naturally, I went down a research rabbit hole (as one does), so I could make sure we’re learning the sport — and its manners — the right way.

Here’s a little history and a kid-friendly guide to golf etiquette, beautifully summarized by my dear friend, ChatGPT.

Modern golf originated in Scotland, and Scottish immigrants brought the game to the U.S. in the late 19th century.
The first U.S. golf course is generally credited to St. Andrew’s Golf Club (1888) in Yonkers, New York, founded by Scottish expatriates.
Chicago Golf Club (1892), established by Charles Blair Macdonald, was the first 18-hole course in America.
U.S. Golf Association (USGA) founded in 1894 to standardize rules and organize national championships.
The U.S. Open and U.S. Amateur debuted in 1895.
The early players were wealthy elites — golf was primarily a country club sport, linked to the Gilded Age social class.

Golf etiquette might seem old-fashioned, but it’s really about respect, safety, and keeping the game fun for everyone.

Teaching kids golf etiquette early (especially on the driving range and practice greens) builds habits that will make them confident, respectful golfers for life.

🏌️‍♀️ Driving Range Etiquette for Kids

🎯 Be Aware of Others

Always look before swinging — make sure no one is too close.
Keep clubs and bags behind the hitting line.
Never walk in front of someone who’s hitting balls.
Stay in your own bay or space.

⏱ Take Turns

If sharing a stall or mat, take turns hitting balls.
Let other kids finish before stepping up.
Avoid racing through buckets — focus on smooth, controlled swings.

🤫 Be Courteous

Keep voices low — some people are concentrating.
Avoid horseplay, yelling, or running.
Don’t throw or swing clubs in frustration.

🧰 Respect Equipment

Treat clubs and range balls as if they were your own.
Don’t bang clubs into mats, bags, or range signs.
When done, return baskets and pick up tees.

🧼 Leave It Better Than You Found It

Replace broken tees or tidy up balls.
Don’t litter or leave trash on the range.

⛳️ Putting Green Etiquette for Kids

🧍 Be Careful on the Green

Don’t run — greens are delicate and slippery.
Never drag feet or pull the flagstick carelessly.
Don’t drop clubs or bags on the green.

🎯 Respect Other Players

Wait until others finish putting before rolling your ball.
Don’t stand on someone’s putting line (the line between their ball and the hole).
Stay quiet and still when someone is putting.

📍 Use Good Practice Habits

Use only one or two balls when the green is busy.
Putt to different holes, not just one spot.
Don’t hit chip shots from the fringe unless it’s allowed.

🚩 Flagstick Etiquette

Be gentle with the flagstick — don’t slam or drop it.
If helping, hold it straight and steady while others putt.

🧹 Leave It Nice

Fix ball marks with a repair tool or tee.
Smooth footprints before leaving.
Gather your balls and clubs neatly when you’re done.

💬 Polite Phrases Kids Can Learn

“You go ahead.”
“Nice putt!” or “Good shot!”
“Excuse me, may I grab my ball?”
“Thank you!” (to parents, coaches, or staff)

🧭 Simple Rule Summary for Kids

Area	Do	Don’t
Driving Range	Hit from your own spot, be aware of others	Walk in front of someone swinging
Putting Green	Wait your turn, stay still	Run or step on other players’ lines
Equipment	Treat clubs carefully	Throw or drop clubs
Behavior	Use quiet voices, say thank you	Shout, roughhouse, or distract others
Cleanup	Return baskets, fix marks	Leave trash or damage behind

🌟 Bonus Tip for Parents or Coaches

Model the behavior. Kids mimic what they see.
Praise good manners as much as good shots (“Great job waiting your turn!”).
Keep sessions short, fun, and positive — etiquette sticks best when it feels rewarding.

Always Have, Always Will ~ Kalie

Golf Etiquette for Kids