Yes, you can take your baby to the driving range. It does depend on the golf facility, but if the driving range doesn’t strictly prohibit it, then you can bring your little one along to get some practice.
The real question here is if its practical to bring a baby to the driving range. As a new father and an avid golfer, I’ve recently had to grapple with this question. If you find yourself in the same shoes, I have some valuable tips that can help.
There are a lot of details you will need to work through before heading to the range. In the article below, we will outline what you need to think about before bringing your little one to the driving range for the first time. Let’s take a look.
Is The Driving Range Safe For Your Baby?
The number one concern of any parents for their children is safety. A driving range can be a dangerous place for your child if not properly planned out.
The most obvious safety hazard is a stray flying golf ball or the occasional club flying out of a beginner’s hands.
These are real risks that need to be taken seriously. Distancing yourself from other patrons is the best step in preventing disaster but you will need to constantly stay diligent.
Creating a barrier between your baby and the rest of the golfers is the best way to ensure your child’s safety.
Aside from flying objects, there are a couple other risk factors to be conscious of. Excess heat and sun can be just as dangerous so make sure you find or bring some shade.
Apply sunscreen or use long sleeve clothes to avoid prolonged sun exposure. Also, be sure to bring plenty of water and bottles for you and your baby to stay hydrated.
Bring a stroller along with a canopy to protect your baby. The stroller will also provide a space to store your extra gear.
Be Conscious of Your Baby’s Needs
Another area of your focus should be the consideration of other golfers at the range. Most people practice their golf swing to relax and reset.
Having toddlers running around screaming or an infant crying can be stressful and distracting to others at the range.
Be conscious of your child’s needs to prevent crying or distracting outburst. This may be difficult at first but remember this is a new adventure for your child as well as for you.
Take your time and slowly you will find out what works best for you and your little one.
Create Your Own Practice Area
Sometimes it won’t be practical to go to the driving range when you have children, especially with a newborn. For those who have outdoor space, creating your own practice facility may be your best choice.
There are plenty of DIY and low cost putting green and short game stations set ups that can be done in almost any space. Be creative and use your imagination. For those with some deeper pockets, golf simulators can be an option.
A golf simulator is an interactive stationary golfing experience that uses high tech sensor to simulate playing golf.
Whether going DIY or spending some serious cash on a simulator, at home options do offer flexibility can offer flexibility for your golfing needs.
Tips For Bringing Your Baby To The Driving Range
Our main tip is to come to the driving range prepared. Pack an extra bottle, don’t forget the noise machine, and for toddlers, make sure that you have something to keep them entertained.
Another important tip is choosing your driving range bay carefully. Many driving ranges have multiple stalls so space yourself out from the crowd and pick somewhere with limited people. This will help put some must needed distance between you and the other golfers.
Bring a stroller to make sure you have a place for you baby to sit. This also will serve as shade and storage.
Also, pick a time of the day or week when you know it’s not going to be crowded. Or try some at home golfing games to replicate the range experience.
Lastly, have fun! Golfing and family are two of the best parts of life so don’t let the stress or anxiety of going to the range distract you from why you went there in the first place.
Introducing your children to golf, even at a very young age, gets them acclimated to the sport and can serve as a great bonding experience.
Having a child can be an adjustment, but you can always find ways to fit in the activities you love. Enjoy the time on the range with your little one and make memories that will last a lifetime.
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