Your kids
#4
Typical Buck
Join Date: Feb 2003
Location: Missouri
Posts: 610
RE: Your kids
I have taken both of my girls with me, both started when they were 4. We go for short stints, so not to get them too bored. I also try to go where there is a lot of deer and wildlife activity to keep their interest. The oldest is now 6, and was able to sit on stand for 3 hours last year. It is a blast to have them along and see how excited they get. Good luck!!
#5
RE: Your kids
Are you kidding! This is my baby, he's 24, 6'3'' races every chance he can.. No way I can get him and I in a tree stand, he too big [:@]
Now I have taken my three year old grand son, word of wisdom, too young at three.
Now I have taken my three year old grand son, word of wisdom, too young at three.
#6
Spike
Join Date: Feb 2006
Posts: 98
RE: Your kids
I have been taking my 12 yr old son hunting since he was about 4 yrs old. Let them take whatever they want to stay occupoied. the key to keeping them in the woods is making it enjoyable. Don't expect them to stay quiet or still for long periods of time. Be willing to pack up and leave 30-45 minutes before dark if they are ready. take them squirrel hunting where they can walk and see several animals. stand hunting is hard on kids. Most importantly don't get aggrivated or upset with them, when it's time to go it's time to go. enjoy the time together, if they are enjoying it you will enjoy it more.
#7
RE: Your kids
I take tons of kids out all season long. Primarily we hunt from ground blinds which will help cover movement.
The most important thing I've learned is when they say their ready to go, GO.
Some kids will go and set there all day and some will want to leave within the first five minutes.
One good activity I've found for the younger kids is to give them control of a video camera and let them shoot the squirells, turkeys, whatever comes out. Since your 4 year old will probably just be watching you take a deer, give him the chance to capture it on camera for you.
Good luck!
The most important thing I've learned is when they say their ready to go, GO.
Some kids will go and set there all day and some will want to leave within the first five minutes.
One good activity I've found for the younger kids is to give them control of a video camera and let them shoot the squirells, turkeys, whatever comes out. Since your 4 year old will probably just be watching you take a deer, give him the chance to capture it on camera for you.
Good luck!
#8
RE: Your kids
Usually whenI take out my kidsI use my ground blind so that their movement is more concealed.I bring along some note pads for them to draw on and some books to look at.I also bring a blanket to put on the ground in case they get tired and want to take a nap.I try not tomake them walk along ways so that they don't get too tired before the hunt even begins. Last year I took my 2 yr old daughter and we hunted from my 16ft double treestand. She only lasted for about a half hour and then we went on a hike. She had a blast and I had fun taking her.Obviously I don't take them into my prime hunting areas but area that I feel I have a good chance of harvesting a doe when they are with. I don't force any of my three children to go but am very happy when oneasks to go with.
#9
RE: Your kids
Well, since i'm only 17 and have no kids, my dad always let me take out books, mind puzzels, game boys, and the all time great: the mini-tv. anything that the kid likes to do(quietly), let him do it. you don't wanna force them into hunting. before long he will start to put down these little things and turn into a deer hunting machine. Hope it works buddy!
#10
RE: Your kids
Awsome question. I am going to take my 7 year old daughter out with me this season in a blind to do some scouting. I already bought her a pair of bino's so she can look around and feel special and I am planning on letting her take her ipod.