Par 4 the Fam

by Courtney Hovis, Par 4 the Fam

Golf is more than just a sport—it’s quality time, fresh air, and a chance to share something special as a family. But if you’ve ever brought your kids along for a round, you know the struggle is real when it’s not their turn to swing. That downtime can lead to boredom fast. So, how do you keep little ones engaged between shots?

Here are some tried-and-true (and mom-approved) ways to keep your kids entertained on the course so everyone can enjoy the game.

1. Create a Golf Course Scavenger Hunt

Before you head out, make a simple checklist of things they might spot on the course:

• A red tee marker
• A sand trap
• A bird or squirrel
• A water hazard
• Someone in a funny golf hat

It turns waiting into a fun game, and it encourages them to stay observant and curious.

2. Pack “Quiet Time” Toys

Think travel-friendly and low-distraction:

• An iPad or kindle (Sorry but sometimes its necessary and you will want it in your golf bag, just incase)
• A golf-themed coloring book and crayons
• A deck of cards (Go Fish between holes!) my kids love these and think they are “super fancy”

Keep a few of these tucked in your golf bag or stroller for easy access.

3. Let Them Be Your “Caddie”

Kids love having a job. Let them:

• Hold your glove
• Pick your next tee color
• Hand you a golf ball
• Wipe your club (give them their own mini towel!)

Giving them a role helps them feel involved—and like a real part of the team.

4. Turn Snacks into an Activity

Make snack breaks special! Bring along individual trail mix bags, fruit, crackers or their favorite popcorn mix. These bento boxes are great to pack the night before and grab before you head out the door. * Mom tip pack one box per cart so kids are not passing back and forth and arguing who gets to hold the snacks.

Have them guess what’s in the mix, sort the colors, or choose which “power snack” each family member gets next.

5. Use a Timer for Turns

If you’ve got multiple kids or just one with ants in their pants, set a phone alert to show when it’s almost their turn again. The countdown keeps things predictable and exciting.

6. Incorporate Mini Challenges

In between holes, challenge them with:

• A mini putting contest on the green fringe
• A “who can do the best golf pose” photo moment
• A speed-walking race to the cart or next tee box

It keeps the pace playful without slowing the group down.

7. Let Them Document the Day

Give older kids a disposable camera or your phone to snap course photos. Ask them to be the “official photographer” of the round—or let them vlog parts of the day. These will be memories they can look back on.

8. Know When to Call It

Some days, it’s just not happening—and that’s okay. Whether you wrap up early or skip a few holes, the goal is to keep golf fun. A few good shots and lots of laughs are better than pushing through a frustrating full round.

Par 4 the Fam Is All About This Balance

At Par 4 the Fam, we’re building a golf lifestyle that includes everyone—from snack-loving toddlers to dads chasing birdies. If you’re looking for more tips, gear guides, or family-friendly golf snacks follow along on Instagram.

Have a course trick that works for your crew? Share it with us—we love hearing from fellow golf families!

Disclosure: Some of the links in this post are Amazon affiliate links. This means that if you click through and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission- at no extra cost to you. I only share products I truly us and love. Thank you for supporting Par 4 the Fam!