Golf can be frustrating. I remind my daughter that it is a game, and we are trying to have fun. I don’t want a bad shot or round to take away her love for it.
Our ten-step reminder
One of her coaches, Rafael Echenique, gave her advice our family remembers this way: give a bad shot about ten steps, then let it go and get ready for the next one. This is our recollection of the idea, rather than a recorded quotation.
Sometimes the best help is a joke
On the course we talk and crack jokes. Taking her mind off a difficult moment can help more than another swing tip from Dad. I try to notice when she needs space instead of more commentary.
Let the conversation belong to the child, too
Ask whether they want to talk about the round or take a break from it. Make room for disappointment without treating the result as a judgment of who they are.
Protect what brought them here
For our daughter, golf carries a connection to her grandfather. Your child may love the friends, the outdoors or the feeling of one well-struck ball. Keep making room for that part.