Bowling with Kids: Tips for Families

Bowling with kids works for almost any age: the rules are simple, children see the result of every roll straight away, and bowling centers have aids for small players. With the right ball, bumpers and a sensible length of play, a family outing to the bowling center becomes an easy afternoon. Here are the most useful tips.

Planning a bigger event? Our bowling party checklist covers everything from invitations to booking lanes.

Choosing the right ball weight for kids

The most common mistake is a ball that is too heavy. A frequently used rule of thumb is one pound of ball weight per year of age, up to about ten pounds. The lightest balls in most centers weigh six pounds, so younger children start there:

• Ages 3 to 5: 6 lb
• Ages 6 to 8: 6 to 8 lb
• Ages 9 to 12: 8 to 10 lb

If your child can barely hold the ball, the arm shakes during the swing or the ball drops at the release, go one pound lighter. Control matters more than weight at any age.

Bumpers and ramps

Most bowling centers can raise bumpers, rails that block the gutters so that every roll reaches the pins. Ask for them when you book or at the counter. In many centers they can be set per player, so they come up for the children and stay down for the adults. Many children are ready to try without bumpers from around seven or eight.

For toddlers and very young children, ask for a bowling ramp. The child places the ball on top, gives it a push and watches it roll down the lane. No swing is needed, so even the youngest can join in.

Shoes and socks

Children wear rental shoes, like adults. Children's sizes often have hook-and-loop fastening, so kids can put them on and take them off without help. Bring socks for everyone: rental shoes are worn with socks, and most centers expect them.

Keep it fun, not competitive

Young children care less about the score than about the noise, the falling pins and the cheering. Try not to correct every roll. Instead:

• Cheer every roll, including the ones that go into the bumper.
• Celebrate small successes, such as the first pin that falls.
• Let children try two-handed or granny-style rolls if that works for them.
• Leave the score in the background.

When bowling starts to feel like a test, children lose interest. A relaxed mood keeps them playing.

How long to play

One game takes about ten to fifteen minutes per player, so the length of a game depends on how many people share the lane. Young children often lose concentration sooner, so for a first visit with little ones, one game is usually enough. Older children and teenagers often want to play two or more.

When you book, plan for the youngest player: a shorter booking that ends while everyone is still enjoying it works better than a long one.

Plan a snack break

Many bowling centers have a snack bar or restaurant. For younger children, a break between games, or even halfway through one, helps: a drink and a bite to eat bring back energy. Check the center's rules before bringing your own food and drinks.

Birthday parties at the bowling center

Bowling is a popular choice for children's birthday parties. Many centers offer party packages that combine lanes, shoes and food; what is included varies by center. The advantages:

• No setting up or cleaning at home.
• The activity is already there.
• Children of different ages can play together, because bumpers and ramps level the field.
• Children can burn off energy in a supervised setting.

Ideas for the day are in our guide to planning a birthday bowling party.

Age recommendations at a glance

Kids Bowl Free in the US and Canada

In the US and Canada, many bowling centers take part in the Kids Bowl Free program: registered children can bowl two free games a day at participating centers during the summer. Shoe rental is not included. Which centers take part and when is listed on the program's website.

Summary

Bowling with kids works best with light balls, bumpers, short sessions and plenty of cheering. The goal is not a high score, but an afternoon the whole family enjoys. And if you find yourself bowling more often afterwards, your own bowling shoes are worth a look.