How to Play Disc Golf with Kids at Coronado Park Albuquerque

Disc golf is more than just a sport—it’s a gateway to outdoor adventure, physical activity, and family bonding. For parents and guardians in Albuquerque looking for a fun, affordable, and educational way to spend time with their children, playing disc golf at Coronado Park offers an ideal blend of nature, structure, and play. Unlike traditional golf, disc golf requires minimal equipment, no membership fees, and is accessible to all ages. Coronado Park, with its tree-lined fairways, gentle terrain, and kid-friendly layout, stands out as one of the most welcoming public courses in the city for families.

This guide provides a comprehensive, step-by-step roadmap for introducing children to disc golf at Coronado Park. Whether your child is five or fifteen, whether they’ve ever thrown a frisbee before or are already a backyard champion, this tutorial will help you turn a simple outing into a meaningful, memorable experience. Beyond just teaching the rules, we’ll explore how to nurture curiosity, build confidence, and instill a lifelong love for the outdoors through disc golf.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Understand What Disc Golf Is (Before You Go)

Before heading to Coronado Park, take a few minutes to explain disc golf to your child in simple terms. Think of it like frisbee golf: instead of hitting a ball into a hole, you throw a flying disc (or “disc”) into a metal basket with chains that catch and hold it. The goal is to complete each hole in as few throws as possible.

Use analogies they understand: “It’s like bowling, but with a flying disc,” or “Like basketball, but you’re throwing from far away to get it into a basket.” Show them a short video on your phone—YouTube has many kid-friendly tutorials under “disc golf for kids.” This visual preview reduces anxiety and builds excitement.

2. Choose the Right Time of Day

Coronado Park is busiest on weekends and after school hours. To make the experience smoother and more enjoyable for kids, aim for weekday mornings—especially Tuesday through Thursday between 8:00 a.m. and 11:00 a.m. The park is quieter, the temperatures are cooler, and there’s less chance of crowding on the course.

Check the Albuquerque weather forecast. Avoid days with high winds (over 15 mph), heavy rain, or extreme heat. Early spring and fall are ideal seasons. Summer mornings are still manageable if you bring hats, sunscreen, and plenty of water.

3. Gather the Right Equipment

You don’t need much to get started, but having the right gear makes a big difference:

• Discs: Bring 2–3 beginner-friendly discs per child. Look for “mid-range” or “putter” discs—they’re easier to control and fly slower. Brands like Discraft, Innova, and Latitude 64 offer kid-specific models with softer plastic and lighter weights (under 150 grams). Avoid drivers; they’re too fast and hard for small hands.
• Bag or Backpack: A small daypack or even a reusable grocery bag works fine to carry discs, water, snacks, and extra clothes.
• Water and Snacks: Hydration is key. Bring at least two water bottles per person. Pack easy, non-messy snacks like granola bars, fruit, or trail mix.
• Sun Protection: Hats, sunglasses, and SPF 30+ sunscreen are non-negotiable. Albuquerque’s elevation means stronger UV rays.
• Comfortable Shoes: Sneakers or closed-toe shoes with good grip are best. The park has grass, dirt, and occasional gravel paths.
• Optional: Scorecards and Pencils: Kids love checking off holes. Print a simple 9-hole scorecard from the Albuquerque Disc Golf Club website or draw one on paper.

4. Arrive and Get Oriented

Coronado Park’s disc golf course is free and open to the public. The main entrance is off Coronado Drive, near the playground and tennis courts. Once inside, look for the course map posted near the first tee. It’s a 9-hole course, with each hole clearly marked by a sign with a number and a diagram of the basket location.

Walk the first hole with your child. Point out the tee pad (a flat, often concrete or gravel area), the target basket (a metal pole with chains hanging down), and any obstacles like trees or bushes. Explain that the goal is to get the disc into the basket using as few throws as possible.

Let your child hold the disc and point to the basket. Ask them, “Where do you think we should aim?” This encourages engagement and builds ownership of the game.

5. Start with a Modified Game

Traditional disc golf rules can be overwhelming for young children. Simplify the game to keep it fun:

• One Throw per Turn: Instead of counting total throws per hole, let each child throw once per turn. After they throw, walk to where the disc landed and throw again. This keeps the pace quick and reduces frustration.
• No Scoring Yet: Skip keeping score on the first visit. Focus on exploration and fun. Introduce scoring on the second or third trip.
• Use a “Target Zone”: Instead of requiring the disc to land in the basket, create a “hit zone” around it—a 10-foot radius. If the disc lands anywhere in that zone, they “made it!” This builds confidence and reduces pressure.
• Play “Disc Golf Tag”: After each throw, have kids run to their disc and tag it before the next person throws. It adds movement and turns waiting time into active play.

6. Teach Basic Throwing Techniques

Don’t overwhelm kids with technical terms like “backhand” or “forehand.” Instead, use playful cues:

• “Like a baseball pitch”: For backhand throws, show them how to hold the disc with fingers underneath, step forward with the opposite foot, and swing their arm like they’re throwing a ball.
• “Wave to the basket”: For forehand (sidearm) throws, have them hold the disc flat and flick their wrist like they’re waving goodbye to the basket.
• “Stand like a tree”: Teach them to keep their feet shoulder-width apart and stay balanced. No running or jumping before throwing.

Let them experiment. Some kids naturally prefer one style over the other. There’s no “right” way—just what feels comfortable. Praise effort, not accuracy.

7. Make Each Hole a Mini-Adventure

Turn each hole into a themed challenge:

• Hole 3 – “The Tree Tunnel”: “Can you throw your disc through the gap between the two big pines?”
• Hole 5 – “The Water Crossing”: “We have to get our disc across the grassy stream without going in the dirt!”
• Hole 7 – “The Hill Climb”: “Let’s see if we can throw uphill like a mountain climber!”

These mini-stories help kids visualize the throw and create emotional connections to the course. You can even make up a simple story about “Captain Disc” saving the park from a flying monster by hitting all the baskets.

8. Celebrate Every Success

Disc golf is a game of failure—most throws don’t land perfectly. That’s why celebrating small wins is critical for kids:

• “Wow, you got it so close!”
• “That was the smoothest throw I’ve seen all day!”
• “You remembered to wait your turn—great patience!”

Use high-fives, stickers, or a small treat at the end. The goal isn’t to win—it’s to enjoy the process. Kids remember how they felt, not their score.

9. End with Reflection and Planning

Before leaving, sit under a tree and ask your child:

• “What was your favorite part?”
• “Which hole was the hardest? Why?”
• “What do you want to try next time?”

This reinforces learning and gives you insight into their interests. If they loved running between holes, plan a “disc golf scavenger hunt” next time. If they liked aiming, bring a laser pointer to practice targeting.

Take a photo of them with their disc at the last basket. These moments become cherished memories—and great motivators for the next visit.

Best Practices

Keep It Short and Sweet

Children have shorter attention spans than adults. Aim for 45 to 75 minutes per session. If your child is having fun, extend it—but if they’re tired or frustrated, it’s okay to stop early. The goal is to leave them wanting more, not burned out.

Model Good Behavior

Disc golf has an unspoken code of conduct: be quiet when others are throwing, wait your turn, pick up your own discs, and respect nature. Children learn by watching. If you calmly wait your turn, pick up litter, and thank other players, they’ll mirror that behavior.

Bring a Friend or Two

Playing with another child or two creates natural social dynamics. Kids motivate each other. If one child is shy, seeing a peer throw confidently can break the ice. Group play also makes cleanup and transitions easier.

Use Positive Reinforcement, Not Competition

Disc golf is not about beating others—it’s about personal progress. Avoid phrases like “You lost” or “I beat you.” Instead, say, “You threw farther than last time!” or “You got closer to the basket than I did!”

Consider creating a “Disc Golf Adventure Passport” for your child. Each time they complete a hole, they get a stamp or sticker. After 9 holes, they earn a small reward—a new disc, a nature book, or a picnic at the park.

Respect the Environment

Coronado Park is part of Albuquerque’s natural ecosystem. Teach kids to stay on paths, avoid trampling plants, and never leave trash behind. Make it a game: “Let’s see how many pieces of litter we can pick up on our way out!”

Adapt for Different Ages

• Ages 3–5: Focus on walking, running, and tossing discs. Use soft foam discs. Play only 2–3 holes. Turn it into a treasure hunt.
• Ages 6–9: Introduce basic rules, counting throws, and simple scoring. Use lightweight plastic discs. Let them choose which disc to throw.
• Ages 10–14: They can handle full rules, keeping score, and longer rounds. Challenge them to improve their consistency, not distance. Let them lead a hole.

Prepare for the Unexpected

Discs get lost. Kids get tired. Weather changes. Always have a backup plan:

• Keep a spare disc in the car.
• Bring a small blanket for sitting on the grass.
• If it starts raining, head to the nearby Coronado Park playground or visit the Albuquerque Museum’s free family exhibits.

Tools and Resources

Free Online Resources

Take advantage of these free, high-quality tools designed for families:

• Albuquerque Disc Golf Club (ADGC) Website: adgc.org offers printable course maps, beginner tips, and event calendars. Their “Family Day” events are perfect for first-timers.
• UDisc App: Download the free UDisc app on your phone. It has GPS tracking, course maps for Coronado Park, and even audio cues for kids. You can turn on “Family Mode” to simplify the interface.
• YouTube Channels: Search “disc golf for kids” for videos like “How to Throw a Disc Golf Disc (for Kids)” by Disc Golf Answer Man or “Family Disc Golf Day at Coronado Park” by Albuquerque Outdoors.
• Disc Golf Foundation: discgolffoundation.org offers free educational materials, including coloring sheets and activity books with disc golf themes.

Recommended Discs for Kids

Not all discs are created equal. Here are the top 5 beginner-friendly discs for children under 12, available at local shops like Disc Golf Pro Shop (Albuquerque) or online:

1. Discraft Buzzz (150g): A stable mid-range disc that flies straight and is easy to grip. Best for backhand beginners.
2. Innova Leopard (145g): A gentle, gliding disc perfect for learning distance control.
3. Latitude 64 River (140g): Soft, forgiving plastic. Ideal for younger kids or those with less strength.
4. Dynamic Discs Judge (155g): A reliable putter that flies slowly and lands softly. Great for short holes.
5. Westside Discs Underworld (135g): A super-light disc designed for kids. Perfect for indoor practice too.

Many of these discs come in bright colors—blue, pink, yellow—which help kids spot them quickly in grass or bushes.

Local Shops and Rentals

If you’re not ready to buy discs, several Albuquerque locations offer rentals:

• Disc Golf Pro Shop (8015 Coors Blvd NW): Offers beginner kits for $10/day, including 3 discs and a bag.
• Albuquerque Sports Supply (10110 Montgomery Blvd NE): Has a “Try Disc Golf” station with loaner discs and a short demo course.
• Coronado Park Community Center: Occasionally hosts free disc lending during weekend family events. Call ahead to check availability.

Community Events

Joining a local event can boost motivation and provide structured learning:

• Family Disc Golf Day (Monthly, 2nd Saturday): Hosted by ADGC at Coronado Park. Includes free instruction, mini-tournaments, and snacks. No registration needed.
• Disc Golf Summer Camp (July): Offered by the City of Albuquerque Parks & Rec for ages 7–12. Four sessions, $25 total. Includes disc, t-shirt, and certificate.
• Albuquerque Youth Disc Golf League: A seasonal league for kids 8–14. Practices at Coronado Park on Tuesdays and Thursdays after school.

Real Examples

Example 1: The Martinez Family – First-Time Visitors

Marisol Martinez, a single mom of two, brought her 6-year-old daughter Mia and 4-year-old son Leo to Coronado Park on a rainy Tuesday morning. She brought foam discs from Amazon, a picnic blanket, and a bag of goldfish crackers.

They played only the first three holes. Mia threw her disc 15 feet and cheered when it landed near the basket. Leo ran ahead of his mom to “find the disc” every time. Marisol didn’t correct their throws—she just clapped and said, “Look at that spin!”

By the end, Mia asked, “Can we come back tomorrow?” Leo hugged his disc and said, “My friend.” They returned weekly. Three months later, Mia won a “Most Improved Player” ribbon at a family event.

Example 2: The Thompson Twins – Sibling Rivalry Turned Teamwork

Eight-year-old twins Ethan and Ella were competitive about everything. Their dad decided to use disc golf to teach cooperation. He created a “Team Challenge”: each hole, they had to throw one disc together—Ethan held it, Ella aimed, and they threw as one.

At first, they argued over direction. But after a few tries, they started talking: “Try left a little.” “Wait, the wind is pushing right.”

By the end of the day, they high-fived each other after every successful throw. They now play as a team, and their parents say their communication skills have improved dramatically.

Example 3: The Garcia Classroom Trip

Ms. Garcia, a 2nd-grade teacher at Coronado Elementary, took her class of 20 students on a field trip to Coronado Park. She partnered with the Albuquerque Disc Golf Club, who provided 10 loaner discs and volunteer instructors.

Students rotated through stations: disc safety, throwing form, and a scavenger hunt for colored discs hidden around the course. Each child got a “Disc Golf Explorer” badge.

One student, who rarely spoke in class, ran to the basket after his first throw and shouted, “I did it!” The whole class cheered. Ms. Garcia says it was the most engaged she’d ever seen him.

Example 4: The Rodriguez Grandparents

Retired teachers Maria and Carlos Rodriguez started taking their 5-year-old granddaughter, Sofia, to Coronado Park every Sunday. They brought old discs from the 1980s and told stories about how they played frisbee as kids.

Sofia now knows the names of every hole. She carries her own bag and helps her grandparents find lost discs. On her birthday, she asked for “a real disc golf disc” as a gift. Her grandparents bought her a purple Innova Leopard.

“It’s not about the game,” Maria says. “It’s about time. And memories.”

FAQs

Can very young children (under 5) play disc golf?

Absolutely. Even toddlers can benefit from the sensory experience of holding a disc, running, and exploring the park. Use soft foam discs and focus on movement, not rules. Turn it into a nature walk with disc-tossing breaks.

Do I need to buy discs to start?

No. Many local organizations offer free rentals. You can also borrow from friends or use old frisbees from home. The goal is to get your child engaged—not to spend money.

Is Coronado Park safe for kids?

Yes. Coronado Park is a well-maintained, family-friendly public space with regular patrols. The disc golf course is separated from busy walking paths, and the terrain is gentle. Always supervise young children, as you would at any public park.

How long does it take to play a full round with kids?

With young children, expect 60–90 minutes for 9 holes. Older kids (10+) may complete it in 45 minutes. The key is to go at their pace. Don’t rush.

What if my child loses a disc?

It happens. Don’t make a big deal of it. Use it as a teaching moment: “Let’s look for it together,” or “Maybe it’s hiding in the grass like a treasure.” Keep a spare disc on hand. Most kids don’t mind replacing it—they’re just happy to keep playing.

Are there restrooms or water fountains at Coronado Park?

Yes. Restrooms are located near the main playground and the community center. Water fountains are available near the tennis courts and picnic areas. Bring your own water bottle to refill.

Can we bring pets?

Yes, leashed dogs are allowed in Coronado Park. However, keep them away from the tee pads and baskets. Some players prefer a quiet, dog-free environment during play.

What if my child doesn’t like it?

That’s okay. Not every child will love disc golf—and that’s fine. Try again in a few weeks with a different approach. Maybe they’ll enjoy it more after seeing a friend play. The goal is exposure, not mastery.

Can we play at night?

No. Coronado Park closes at dusk, and the disc golf course is not lit. Stick to daylight hours for safety and visibility.

Is there a cost to play?

No. Coronado Park’s disc golf course is completely free to use. No permits, fees, or reservations required.

Conclusion

Playing disc golf with kids at Coronado Park isn’t just about learning to throw a disc—it’s about teaching patience, resilience, and appreciation for the natural world. In a time when screens dominate childhood, this simple outdoor game offers something rare: unstructured, screen-free play that builds motor skills, focus, and emotional regulation.

Coronado Park, with its accessible layout, welcoming community, and beautiful desert landscape, provides the perfect stage for these moments. Whether your child is throwing their first disc or mastering their third hole, the real victory is in the laughter, the curiosity, and the quiet pride in their eyes when they see their disc land where they aimed.

Start small. Be patient. Celebrate effort over outcome. Bring snacks, water, and an open heart. And remember: the best disc golfers aren’t the ones who throw the farthest—they’re the ones who keep coming back.

Grab a disc. Walk to Coronado Park. And let the game begin.