The topics of guns and gun violence can be very polarizing, so it might feel like an awkward subject to discuss – especially with your children. Whether you own several guns or just a few, there are many things you need to teach your children about guns, even if you are confident that guns in your home are safely stored. Here at ProShots, we are all about emphasizing safety when it comes to the use of guns and would like to help you pass that along to children in your family. Here are a few things that can be helpful.
- Keep the conversation going. One of the best things to do about guns and gun safety with your kids is to talk with them about guns, and then have that talk again and again! Be open and honest with your children about what they should do when they find a gun (don’t touch, leave it, find a grownup) at their house or a friend’s house.
- Treating guns with respect. Guns can be confusing for kids who also see them presented as toys. Talk to you children about the differences in play guns versus the treatment of real guns and remind them that many real guns might look like play guns and vice versa.
- Gun safety at home. While you might think that hiding your guns is good enough, children are excellent seekers. Guns should always be locked in a gun cabinet, with the keys secured or hidden elsewhere.
- How to handle conflicting opinions. Teach your children that not everyone likes guns and that not everyone believes people should have guns – and that’s ok! Teach your children that not everyone will agree with gun ownership, and that there is nothing wrong with simply changing the subject.
For more information on how to talk to your kids about guns, talk to us today here at ProShots.
