[ravewoofer]

I started taking my children to the range around age 8. At first, they would watch me shoot skeet, then as they became more comfortable around the game, I'd have them push the trap button for the squad. Once the kids got used to the commands and learned about both gun safety and range safety would I let them proceed to the rifle range for both 22 pistol and bolt action 22 rifle.

If either child did not follow my directions to a T, we would just stop, pack our bags and leave. Safety, safety, safety. IMO, a 3 yo will not be able to follow adult directions, nor would they be able to even know if their gun handling was safe or not.

My 17 yo old son shoots quite well and enjoys recreational shootiing and hunting and my 13 yo daughter really enjoys plinking with the rifle. Incidentally, my wife and I do not come from a shooting family background, and my wife never had a problem with me taking the kids to the range or hunting.