If you’ve ever worried about signing your child up for a new activity because they might be “behind” other kids, you’re not alone. It’s a common concern among parents, and one we hear when families are considering First Tee programs.
Here’s what we want you to know: At First Tee, we’ve designed our approach so that every participant can learn, grow and have fun, regardless of where they start.
We’ve found kids and teens genuinely enjoy being around their peers. That’s why most First Tee Chapters offer age-based programming, rather than grouping kids by skill level. This allows players to connect, laugh and learn from each other in ways that transcend golf skills.
“First Tee coaches intentionally create optimal learning environments for participant success — fostering friendship, golf skill development and fun on the course,” said Lauren Kyaw, manager of First Tee’s coach program. “Through coaching strategies and coachable moments, coaches meet participants where they are and guide them toward mastery.”
But we also know that a 10-year-old who’s never held a golf club has different needs than a 10-year-old who plays regularly. That’s why our coaches take a thoughtful, individualized approach within each class.
How we make it work
At the start of each session, our coaches determine where each participant stands with their golf skills, not through an assessment but by observing their performance in fun games and drills. This isn’t about labeling anyone or creating pressure but about understanding how we can best support each player’s journey.
From there, we use several strategies to ensure everyone is appropriately challenged and engaged:
Personal Par is one of our favorite concepts. Instead of holding everyone to the same standard, we encourage each player to set their own goals for activities. A beginner might aim to make contact with the ball three times in a row, while a more advanced player might work on hitting a specific target. Both students are working hard, both are achieving something meaningful and both are experiencing success.
Flexible grouping means that while the class stays together as a unit, we’ll group players by skill level when introducing more complex techniques. At the same time, we intentionally pair advanced players with beginners during team challenges. This builds camaraderie across skill levels and allows everyone to contribute their strengths.
Optimal challenge ensures that activities cater to multiple skill levels. Every student faces appropriate challenges … not too easy, not too frustrating, but just right for where they are in their development.
The power of peer mentorship
Here’s something special that happens when you mix skill levels: advanced players become natural leaders and mentors. We’ve seen countless students light up when given the opportunity to help a classmate or demonstrate a skill. This doesn’t just reinforce their own learning, it builds confidence, empathy and leadership abilities that extend far beyond the golf course.
Many chapters also offer teen activities where golf isn’t the focus. From opportunities to build leadership skills, like teen advisory boards, to social events, like movie nights, bowling and other outings, these activities allow players of all skill levels to interact and build friendships off the course.
Coaching that adapts to each student
Our coaches understand that feedback isn’t one-size-fits-all. A student who’s just starting out might need encouragement and simple adjustments, while a more experienced player might benefit from more technical guidance. Our coaches modify their feedback to fit each player’s needs and learning style, ensuring that everyone receives the support that will help them improve.
Your child doesn’t need to know anything about golf to thrive in a First Tee program. They don’t need to be naturally athletic or have prior experience. They just need to show up ready to try, to learn and to be part of a community that values growth over perfection.
“Regardless of participants’ golf skill level, coaches bridge activities back to everyday life, helping youth overcome challenges, set goals and deal with adversity,” Kyaw said. “This ties back to First Tee’s mission and purpose: empowering participants to build character and instill life-enhancing values through golf, values they will carry far beyond the course.”
Learn more about supporting First Tee.