At First Tee — San Francisco, we help kids age 6-18 develop their golf swing, but more importantly, their inner strength and character. Because we know what’s inside doesn’t just count; it changes the game.

We believe experiences are our greatest teacher, they should be both fun and meaningful, where kids feel excited to grow, safe to fail, and better equipped for whatever comes their way.

First Tee’s age-based learning structure places participants in groups with peers of similar developmental stages, rather than skill levels. This model integrates golf instruction with character development, using age-appropriate activities to build confidence, manage emotions, and foster social skills moving away from the previous level-based system.

At First Tee — San Francisco, we encourage participants to bring their own golf clubs if they have them.

If not, we provide equipment for all ages and dexterity to use during class. There’s no need to purchase clubs and equipment before joining, so your child can get started right away with everything they need.

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First Tee uses a nationally developed youth curriculum that combines golf instruction with life skills learning. Through fun, engaging activities and on-course experiences, participants build confidence, resilience, goal-setting skills, and interpersonal skills alongside their golf development.

Lessons are designed to be age-appropriate and focus on both technical golf fundamentals and personal growth. Participants learn skills such as putting, chipping, full swing, and course etiquette while also exploring values like honesty, respect, perseverance, and sportsmanship.

Our trained coaches create a positive and supportive environment where participants can learn, grow, and develop skills that extend far beyond the golf course.

Participants should wear comfortable athletic clothing and closed-toe shoes suitable for outdoor activity and movement. Golf attire is welcome, but not required.

We recommend:

• Athletic shoes or golf shoes
• Comfortable shorts, pants, or athletic wear
• A hat or visor for sun protection
• Layers or a light jacket for changing weather conditions

Since programs take place outdoors in San Francisco, weather can often be cool, windy, or foggy — even during spring and summer months. We encourage participants to dress in layers so they can stay comfortable throughout class.

Please also bring a water bottle and apply sunscreen before class.

Golf equipment can be purchased at most sporting goods stores, golf retailers, or online shops. Beginner participants do not need expensive equipment to get started, and many junior sets are designed specifically for youth players.

Common places families shop include:

• PGA TOUR Superstore
• Dick’s Sporting Goods
• Golf Galaxy
• Local golf pro shops
• Online retailers such as Amazon or GlobalGolf

First Tee — San Francisco also provides equipment during class for participants who may not yet have their own clubs. We recommend waiting to purchase equipment until your child has had a chance to explore the game and determine their level of interest.

If you would like guidance on selecting age-appropriate clubs or beginner equipment, our staff is happy to help point you in the right direction. You can email us at [email protected].

Tee times can be booked directly through the golf course where your child would like to play. Most local golf courses allow tee time reservations online or by phone.

For participants who are new to the game, we recommend:

• Choosing shorter or beginner-friendly courses
• Booking during non-peak hours when courses are less crowded
• Looking for junior, family, or twilight tee times

Many Bay Area golf courses also offer discounted junior rates for youth players.

If your child is participating in First Tee — San Francisco programs, our coaches may also provide guidance on:

• Beginner-friendly courses
• Pace of play and course etiquette
• When participants are ready for on-course play
• How to prepare for a round of golf

Families are always welcome to ask our staff for local course recommendations and junior golf resources.

Participants are encouraged to continue practicing outside of class to build confidence and develop their skills. Practice opportunities may include:

• Visiting a driving range or practice facility
• Playing on the golf course with family or friends
• Practicing putting or chipping at home or at a local course
• Participating in open practice sessions or supervised play opportunities when available

First Tee — San Francisco also encourages participants to practice the life skills they learn during class — such as goal setting, perseverance, and confidence — both on and off the golf course.

Our coaches are happy to recommend beginner-friendly courses, practice facilities, and age-appropriate ways for participants to continue improving between classes.

Youth on Course is a program that provides young golfers with access to affordable rounds of golf at participating courses nationwide. Members can play at thousands of participating golf courses for a low, subsidized rate, helping make the game more accessible for juniors and families.

Participants can join Youth on Course by registering here. The membership fee is $20.00 per calendar year. Once registered, members receive access to participating courses, member rates, and additional junior golf opportunities.

First Tee — San Francisco encourages participants to take advantage of Youth on Course as a great way to:

• Gain on-course experience
• Practice outside of class
• Build confidence and independence
• Make golf more affordable for families

Our staff and coaches are also happy to help families learn more about membership, participating courses, and getting started. You can email us at [email protected].

“Car Talk” is a simple way for families to continue the learning experience beyond the golf course. After class, parents and guardians can use conversation prompts during the ride home to talk with their child about what they learned, experienced, and enjoyed during the program.

These conversations help reinforce both the golf and life skills introduced in class.

Car Talk can help participants:

• Reflect on what they learned
• Build confidence by sharing their experiences
• Strengthen communication skills
• Connect lessons from golf to everyday life

Our goal is to help learning continue outside of class and encourage meaningful conversations between participants and their families in a fun, supportive way. You can access Car Talk cards from ClassDojo. Download the ClassDojo mobile app here: Apple App Store or Google Play.

First Tee — San Francisco uses ClassDojo as a communication tool to help families stay informed and connected throughout the program session. Through ClassDojo, families may receive:

• Program updates and reminders
• Weather or schedule notifications
• Important announcements
• Class photos and highlights
• Information about upcoming events and opportunities

ClassDojo also helps build stronger connections among coaches, participants, and families by making communication simple and accessible.

Families will receive instructions on how to join their participant’s ClassDojo group after registration or before the session begins. Participation is encouraged so families can stay up to date with program information and their child’s experience throughout the season.