The best time to discuss guns is once you notice your child either engaging in gun play, or talking about guns he's seen at a friend's house, on TV, or in the movies. If you decide to keep a gun in your house, keep it locked and unloaded in a place that children can't get to, such as a locked safe or cabinet. Store the bullets in a separate place, also out of kids' reach. Once you believe your child is old enough to learn preliminary gun safety, let him hold the gun and teach him to keep it pointed in a safe direction, away from himself and anyone else in the room, and to keep his finger away from the trigger. Warn your child never to touch a gun at a friend's house or in an unfamiliar setting.
Many organizations offer gun-safety lessons.
Eddie Eagle , which is run by the National Rifle Association, is one of the is the most widely used gun-safety programs for children in America. Share your thoughts on this article with other parents See other parents' comments on this topic. All rights reserved. This internet site provides information of a general nature and is designed for educational purposes only. If you have any concerns about your own health or the health of your child, you should always consult with a physician or other healthcare professional.