For firearm enthusiasts, there's nothing quite like the first time you and your child get to visit the shooting range together. It may be a little intimidating for them at first, but you can make sure it goes as smoothly as possible with a few helpful tips. Follow the guide below, and your child will be eager to return to the range for more. 

Top 3 Tips for Taking Your Kid to the Shooting Range

1. Don't Force It

Before you even get in the car, you should make sure your child has a genuine level of interest in learning to fire a gun. Any signs of discomfort or reluctance should be taken seriously; forcing them into the situation will only lead to trouble. This also applies to time spent on the shooting range. Monitor their stamina and make sure they're comfortable and energized the whole time. 

2. Emphasize Education & Supervision

Education and safety are of the utmost importance when it comes to firearms training. This is why direct adult supervision is so crucial. Keeping your child away from guns until they understand all of the proper precautionary measures will make the process more enjoyable and safe for you both. It will give you a chance to work together, take turns, and bond over the shooting range experience.  

3. Create Room for Early Successes

The easier you go on your child during their first shooting range session, the more likely they will be to experience the thrill of success. Close-range targets that are easy to identify and strike will ensure they hit their mark. Even if their time at the range is brief, this success will encourage them to continue in the future. 

When you’re ready to introduce your child to the shooting range, head to Shooter's Firearms & Indoor Range, the one-stop shop for firearms both new and old in Columbia, IL. They have a full-service indoor shooting range complete with target practice opportunities and full-on competitions, so there's something for everyone. Visit their website for more information on training, and give them a call today at (618) 281-6393.