And police officers have mistaken toy guns for real weapons. Whether they have toy weapons or not, children have always played at games involving violent deaths. Such dramatic play is exciting and provides kids with opportunities to feel powerful and invincible. It's fine for kids to invent these games themselves, as long as no one gets hurt. However, if adults provide them with toys that suggest real weaponry, children are getting the message that we are encouraging them to play at violence.
Some parents compromise by allowing water pistols.
If you buy your kids water guns, make sure they do not look like real weapons. Talk with your children about the danger of guns. Your kids may receive toy guns from relatives or play with them at other kids' houses. Children who play with toy guns need to understand that there are clear limits about how they should be used. They should not be pointed at anyone who is not actively participating in the agreed-upon game.