Disc Golf for Families: Fun Ways to Play Together

Quick Answer

Disc golf is a fantastic family activity that combines outdoor fun, exercise, and friendly competition. To get started, choose beginner-friendly discs, pick a short course, and adapt the rules to suit all ages. With a few simple tweaks, you can create an enjoyable experience for everyone.

Disc golf is a growing sport that offers a perfect blend of physical activity, strategy, and fun. For families, it's an excellent way to spend quality time together outdoors, away from screens and distractions. Whether you have young children or teenagers, disc golf can be adapted to ensure everyone has a great time.

In this guide, we'll explore practical tips for playing disc golf as a family, including how to choose the right equipment, modify the game for kids, and keep the experience positive and engaging. By the end, you'll have all the tools you need to hit the course with confidence.

Choosing the Right Equipment for Kids and Beginners

One of the most important steps in family disc golf is selecting discs that are easy for kids to throw. Lightweight discs, typically in the 130-150 gram range, are ideal for children as they require less force to fly well. Look for discs with a larger diameter and a blunt edge, as these are more forgiving and easier to grip.

For parents and older kids, mid-range discs and putters are great starting points. They are easier to control than distance drivers and help build fundamental throwing techniques. Avoid high-speed drivers initially, as they can be frustrating for beginners due to their required arm speed.

• Start with a basic set: a putter, a mid-range, and a fairway driver.
• Let each family member choose their own disc color to avoid mix-ups.
• Consider discs with a lower weight for younger children to increase throw distance.

Finding a Family-Friendly Course

Not all disc golf courses are created equal. When playing with family, look for courses that are shorter in length, have open fairways, and minimal water hazards or dense woods. Many local parks have beginner-friendly courses with multiple tee pads, allowing you to choose a shorter distance.

Before heading out, check online reviews or local disc golf groups for recommendations on family-friendly courses. Some courses even have practice baskets or open areas where you can set up your own mini-course. If you're new to the area, call ahead to ask about course conditions and difficulty.

• Use the shorter tee pads (often red or white) for kids and beginners.
• Look for courses with benches and shade for breaks.
• Avoid courses with busy roads or water features for safety.

Adapting the Game for Different Ages

To keep the game fun for everyone, you'll need to adapt the rules. For younger children, consider playing 'best throw' where each player throws from the same spot, and you take the best shot. This keeps the game moving and prevents frustration. Alternatively, you can set a maximum number of throws per hole, such as 10, to avoid endless attempts.

Another fun variation is 'doubles' where a parent and child team up, taking turns throwing. This encourages teamwork and allows kids to learn from more experienced players. You can also create 'family rules' like allowing a mulligan (extra throw) per hole for kids under 10.

• Use 'best throw' or 'doubles' formats to keep the pace.
• Set a maximum score per hole to prevent frustration.
• Celebrate every successful putt, no matter how short.

Teaching Basic Throwing Techniques

Before hitting the course, spend a few minutes teaching the basic backhand throw. Start with a simple grip: place your fingers under the disc and your thumb on top. Stand sideways with your non-throwing shoulder facing the target. As you swing your arm forward, snap your wrist at the end to add spin.

Keep the instruction light and encouraging. Focus on having fun rather than perfecting technique. Demonstrate the throw yourself and let kids practice in an open field before starting the round. Remember, the goal is to enjoy the outdoors and each other's company.

• Practice in a park or backyard before hitting the course.
• Use a towel or frisbee to demonstrate the throwing motion.
• Praise effort, not just results.

Making It a Positive Experience

The most important aspect of family disc golf is that everyone has a good time. Keep the atmosphere light and supportive. Avoid keeping strict score if it causes stress; instead, focus on personal achievements and improvement. You can even create a 'family champion' trophy for the day's winner.

Plan for breaks and bring snacks and water. Disc golf courses can be long, so take time to enjoy the scenery and have a picnic at the halfway point. If the course is crowded, be patient and let faster groups play through.

• Bring a small backpack with water, snacks, and sunscreen.
• Take a break at a scenic spot for a snack or photo.
• End the day with a special treat, like ice cream, to celebrate.

Steps to Start Family Disc Golf

1. Gather Equipment: Acquire lightweight discs for kids and a few mid-range discs for adults. Consider a starter set that includes a putter, mid-range, and driver. Checkpoint: Everyone has a disc they can comfortably grip and throw.
2. Choose a Course: Research local courses and select one that is short, open, and safe. Look for multiple tee pads or beginner-friendly layouts. Checkpoint: The course should be walkable and not too challenging for the youngest players.
3. Explain the Rules: Simplify the rules: each player throws from the tee, then from where their disc landed, until they reach the basket. Count throws as points. Checkpoint: Kids understand the basic flow and know to stay behind the thrower.
4. Adapt the Game: Modify the rules for younger kids, such as using 'best throw' or allowing mulligans. Set a maximum score per hole to keep the game moving. Checkpoint: Everyone is having fun and no one is getting frustrated.
5. Focus on Fun: Emphasize enjoyment over competition. Celebrate good throws, take breaks, and enjoy the outdoors together. Checkpoint: The family wants to play again next weekend.

Upgrade Your Family Disc Golf Experience

• 80 Metal Coins (Scythe & Expeditions): These 80 custom metal coins are designed specifically for Expeditions and Scythe by artist Jakub Rozalski. They include denominations of $1, $3, $5, $10, and $20. Use these coins as fun, tactile score markers for your family disc golf games, adding a premium feel to your scoring system.
• tapestry-natural-rubber-playmat-1-a60978a9d448959ff54379a8-625842">Tapestry Natural Rubber Playmat: This natural rubber playmat for Tapestry has double-stitched edges for durability. It is double sided (two different player-count ranges) and includes slots for landmark miniatures and cards. While designed for board games, this playmat can serve as a comfortable picnic blanket or a clean surface for sorting discs between holes.

Disc golf is a wonderful way to bring your family together for outdoor fun and exercise. By choosing the right equipment, adapting the game, and keeping the focus on enjoyment, you can create lasting memories. So grab your discs, head to a local course, and start your family's disc golf adventure today!