I have a different take... both wife and I are retired soldiers and by definition safety (natzi) nutz
We raised three biological children... and we were both in a personal safety imperative job skill that required a PLAN and the proper tools
Early on we got training, the proper tools, and skills... child safety was a BIG concern...mostly because the Tools Needed to be readily accessible
Like any other item in the house hold that a Child must respect and NOT touch...like a $150 blown glass Bauble (dragon), flower pot, or hot stove.... children are pretty easy to train to NOT touch....ever
Now in their 30s .... each has a distinct respect for the need for and proper use of fire arms...despite one being ultra liberal.... she still has a pistol for family protection....
Like I said....raised three kids.... never had to put covers on electrical outlets, lock cupboards, or hide trinkets or weapons
proactive teaching from age 6 months and up
Teen age kids exploring.. and being contrary...a separate problem...we did have to lock away all the dangerous stuff... Teen agers are a brain dead group you must be very proactive with...they are convinced they know more than you do...give me a 8~10 year old any day vs a 14~18 year old
We always kept/keep a loaded firearm in each vehicle.... on a longer trip I will unload and hand pistol to son or daughter and have them disassemble and reassemble the weapon.... kind of a timed drill
Bottom line it is entirely possible to raise kids to respect and have fun with fire arms and also be very adept at using them, why and where
I am always pissed at family or friends who bring their urchins to our house and we have to run around and say No No No every 5 minuets..... poor parenting IMO
Yes Virginia...wife and I do lock away all guns and ammo when these poor parents bring their not well trained children over