The SEL Mini Golf Lab Swings into A.W. Cox

Coming to A.W. Cox Elementary School in February 2026, The SEL Mini Golf Lab, led by physical education teacher Derek DeLucia, will transform part of the PE experience into a hands-on, skill-building mini golf course. But this is far more than a game.

Mini golf provides a low-impact, highly inclusive activity that strengthens hand-eye coordination, balance, fine motor control, and controlled force application — foundational skills that support success across many sports and physical activities. Because of its accessible nature, every student can participate meaningfully and experience success.

Beyond physical development, mini golf encourages strategic thinking and problem-solving. Students must judge angles, distance, and force while navigating obstacles — connecting movement with spatial reasoning and basic science concepts like motion and friction. Stroke counting and measurement naturally reinforce math skills, while collaborative course design fosters creativity and teamwork.

Perhaps most importantly, the lab promotes social-emotional learning. Students practice patience, turn-taking, communication, resilience, and positive peer interaction in a playful, low-pressure environment. The project aligns closely with Guilford’s Portrait of a Graduate competencies, helping students grow as adaptable learners, responsible collaborators, critical thinkers, effective communicators, and empathetic individuals.

GFFE was excited to support this project with a grant for Mr. DeLucia to purchase the versatile equipment. This kit is module and can be formatted in many ways to adjust to kids' needs and objectives. We can’t wait to see students designing their own creative courses, cheering each other on, and building confidence — one putt at a time.