Terri Ramsey Beavers If you are an avid hunter, your kids will probably get your genes and love the outdoors as much as you do. But there is always a possibility they wouldn’t want to walk on the same path. Either way, it is a good idea to do your bit for nurturing hunting love in your children. It is a small effort to ensure they carry your legacy ahead. But making an adamant kid love the idea of exploring the wild can be a challenge. You will have to take a strategic approach to do it organically. Here are some tips to help.
Spend more time outdoors
Prepping your kids for hunting love is all about starting young. Spending more time outdoors with them from a young age gives you a head start. You need not take them into the wild until they are old enough. But show the little one the joys of nature by taking them for bird watching, hiking, or fishing. Educate them about different plants and animals to generate inherent curiosity.
Ensure that the first trip is the best
Kids are often excited about their first hunting trip. But it is natural to be apprehensive too, even if they do not say so. As a parent, you must ensure that their first hunting trip is the best. Pick a destination you know well so that there are no concerns about safety or losing your way. Pack things they like, such as their favorite snacks, games, and music. Give your kids reasons to feel happy and excited about their first hunting trip.
Introduce them to the world of weapons
Introducing your kids to the world of weapons is also a good way to nurture their love for hunting. Start by showing them pictures and videos of weapons and shooting when they are young. Show them guns, optics, and accessories when they are old enough. It is also a good opportunity to educate kids on gun safety rules. When they are ready, you can even enroll children in training.
Encourage questions
As you work on fostering hunting love in your children, let them come up with questions. Kids are inherently curious, and they will want to know more about your experiences and incidents. Paint a happy picture as you narrate stories of the wild. Be honest as you answer their questions, and ensure you create a positive mindset towards hunting. They will want to join you sooner rather than later.
Create a family tradition
Many American families have a hunting tradition as they take their kids to the wild a couple of times every year. Your parents may have started a tradition, or you may want to be the first to do it in the family line. Make it an exciting event for your children, and let them be a part of planning. Ask for suggestions and delegate tasks such as preparing checklists and packing for the trip.
Nurturing hunting love in your kids should be effortless. Make sure you do not force them, but be patient and wait until they wish to explore the joy and thrill of the wild.