Need parental advice

[A.S.]

I took my son out when he was 4. I carried a gun and killed a deer specifically so he could witness the whole thing. He was very excited before we went, and was even more curious when I field dressed it.

[Gooserbat]

I killed a buck about a mile from the house when Zane was 4 and I went home and brought him back to help with the tracking and field dressing. He's now 16 quite the hunter with around 20 deer to his credit.

[kennyb]

My sons are now 19 & 20 years old and I started taking them with me hunting when they were 4-5 years old including the field dressing of my deer. I was concerned at the time about their reactions. It turned out very well and they were curious and excited about the experience. They reacted very well and it was good for them to learn this lesson. It was better than I thought it would be. They could bone out a deer when they were 11/12 years old! So, like others have said it depends on the child and the approach you use to teach them these lessons. Good subject. Thanks.

Kenny    

[meathead]

Both of my kids were always curious.  They have always been around animals both alive and dead.  I would take them on recoveries when the were small children.  They both started hunting small game themselves by 9 or 10 years of age.  I am also a biologist so they have spent quite a bit time with me at check stations doing sample collection and aging.  How else will they learn about the life we have chosen unless we expose them to it?

[tomsm44]

I didn't read every single response, but I agree with most that I did read.  I started my two oldest very early.  Best thing you could do is teach him early where our food comes from.  If he learns it at school it probably won't be an accurate explanation.

Matt

[JoeM]

One of my stories, get'em involved young my kids and I spend a lot of time small gaming together.  Any time in the woods is good, my kids still don't watch me field dress but they do look forward to butchering and cooking.
 http://tradgang.com/noncgi/ultimatebb.php?ubb=get_topic;f=1;t=133104;p=1#000000

[Homebru]

"All you've got to do is, act naturally."
homebru

[KyStickbow]

My oldest son is 8....but he has been around the processing part for a long time...probably 2-3. He loves every part of the hunt...finish to end. I also have 2 younger children...one 4 and the other is 2. Both of them love to watch me butcher the deer...and love to ask questions about what is what.

My daughter...the 4 year old loves to watch me cut up the backstrap and get it ready to cook. Thats her favorite..she calls it deer chicken nuggets. Lol

[stalkin4elk]

My son was 4 and was with me on an antelope hunt. We got home and Mom asked, how was the trip? He excitedly responded. " Mom you got to come quick and see his hairy nuts!!"             He was good to go. My daughter was the scientist and needed to know all the parts and how they worked...even at 4 or 5. Don't worry.

[achigan]

Above all, go with your gut instinct...     (can't believe no one used that one yet). It's all really REAL, all natural. You're a good dad or you wouldn't be asking around. You'll do the right thing.

[NBK]

Originally posted by Rob W.:
One of the best teaching moments of a parents life. My boys know that a kill is something to be celebrated as well as honored. I have made sure they are involved in as many aspects of the hunt as possible from a very young age. It is my intention for them to be knowledgeable about every part of the process when they are ready to hunt from scouting to cooking.

X2:  I view this as much a responsibility as a privilege.