Golf is a gentlemen's game, a game of honor and prestige, but you now find yourself with a tee time at a highly acclaimed golf course with your wife and 2 kids. You can make sure that you retain the honor and tradition of the game, not be embarrassed, and most importantly have fun by educating your family on the etiquette and rules of the game, setting ground rules, and setting your goals for family fun instead of low scores.

Make sure that the basic rules of etiquette are discussed with the family before proceeding to the course. Pace of play is the most important of these rules. Make sure that you never fall more than one hole behind the group ahead of you during the round. If you do fall behind a good method is to ask your kids to be caddies for a hole instead of playing the hole. This way they can help rake bunkers, look for balls, get yardages and hold the flagstick for you while you putt. This method is a lot more fun than just asking them to pick up their ball and ride in the cart. Other etiquette issues such as dress code, where to stand, and how to remain as quiet should also be discussed.

Enforce applicable consequences if your children break any ground rules you have set. This method will help prevent your 5 year old son from driving a golf cart into the lake. Setting ground rules such as, only mommy and daddy can drive the cart; will ensure you don't get embarrassed on the course.

Get your kids involved with the day by coming up with some games that they can be a part of. Bingo, bango, bongo is a great game to play, and it is easy to come up with others on your own and with the help of your kids.

If your goal is to go out and break the course record you will be sadly disappointed, but if you want to have some family fun just remember these guidelines and the rest is easy.

Learn more about this author, Jason Coffin.
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