If you’re wondering when your child is ready to start playing golf, you’re asking the right question. The good news? There’s no single “perfect” age to begin, but there are some helpful guidelines.
Most First Tee chapters offer age-based programming – typically starting with 7–9-year-olds – so participants play alongside their peers, who are usually at similar stages of development in terms of attention span, strength and hand-eye coordination. That said, younger children can certainly be introduced to golf, and some First Tee chapters do this in playful, age-appropriate ways.
It’s about more than the swing
At First Tee, we’ve seen firsthand that starting golf isn’t just about learning to hit a ball: It’s about what the game teaches you along the way. Through golf, kids develop perseverance when a shot doesn’t go as planned, integrity when keeping score and respect for others sharing the course. These character-building moments happen whether your child picks up golf at 7 or 17.
Our programs are designed to meet kids where they are developmentally, focusing on fun, skill-building and life skills education.
Rather than focusing solely on age, consider whether your child:
- Shows interest in the game (maybe they’ve watched golf on TV or asked about it)
- Can follow basic instructions
- Enjoys outdoor activities and trying new things
- Is ready to practice patience — golf rewards persistence, not perfection
Starting Points Beyond Age
The right time also depends on the environment you’re introducing them to. Programs like First Tee emphasize inclusivity, character development and creating a welcoming space for beginners. This supportive atmosphere can make all the difference, regardless of when your child starts.
If your child is older and just discovering golf, that’s perfectly fine too. We’ve seen teenagers find their passion for the game and develop the same valuable life skills as those who started younger. Golf is a lifelong sport, and there’s truly no age when it’s “too late” to begin.
Find a First Tee chapter near you and give your child the opportunity to experience the game that teaches so much more than golf.
