Top 10 Must-Dos for Parents of Developing Junior Golfers
By Jeff Jones, PGA Founder, Junior Golf Pro to Go – Fixing the Broken Lesson Model for Juniors As a parent of a junior golfer, you want to set them up for success. But most junior golf programs fail to prioritize real development—focusing on quick fixes instead of long-term growth. Here’s a proven roadmap to help your child build skills, gain confidence, and love the game! 1. Provide Access to Technical Swing Information 📚 Forget the outdated advice of “keeping it simple.” Junior golfers are capable of learning real swing mechanics when taught in a structured way. Feed their curiosity! Give them access to technical concepts in a way they can absorb. 2. Get Organized with a Golf Calendar 📅 Most serious youth sports require 4-6 hours per week, 3-4 days per week. Golf should be no different. Create a structured schedule that allows for consistent development instead of random, occasional practice. 3. Prioritize 3 Clubs for 90% of Practice ⛳ Your junior golfer doesn’t need to master every club right away. Instead, focus on the three most important ones: ✅ Driver – To develop power and accuracy off the tee ✅ Wedges – To control distance and improve scoring ✅ Putter – Because short game separates good players from great ones 4. Track Scores & Reward Effort, Not Just Results 🏆 Early results can be frustrating for juniors. Encourage effort over outcomes. Post practice scores and celebrate progress—this builds confidence and resilience. 5. Ensure Their Equipment Fits Properly 🔧 Incorrectly sized clubs kill development. If clubs are too long, too short, or too heavy, your child won’t be able to generate proper speed and mechanics. Get them fitted correctly to support optimal swing motion. 6. Replace “Beating Balls” with Skills Games 🎯 Mindless ball-striking doesn’t build skill. Make practice competitive and engaging with challenges and games that reinforce scoring, accuracy, and decision-making. 7. Train the Athlete & Golfer Simultaneously 💪 Most junior swing flaws come from lack of body coordination, not lack of knowledge. Build movement skills with: