In the eyes of a child, hunting is most likely just another recreational activity with some unique benefits. In a parent's perspective hunting is an opportunity to direct an important component in their child's education.Children are allowed briefly to engage in the adult World complete with adult responsibilities and accountability, and they learn quickly of the serious ramifications of guns and safety. Hunting gives children the opportunity to bond with a parent in shared activity removed from distractions of everyday life. For a short time, the relationship shifts from that of a parent-child to one of peers, enjoying a mutual connection with nature.
A child's ability to concentrate upon the task at hand is greatly enhanced through hunting. Given the vast number of preparations necessary for a successful hunt, hunting teaches a child to multitask on a number of levels. The final result of the overall enjoyment of the experience is contingent upon personal responsibility, as there is no deflection of fault in failing. The ability to differentiate reality from perception is painfully obvious in a hunting situation, and thought in general seems to run deeper in concept while in a survival atmosphere.
A responsible parent that takes their child hunting teaches self-reliance. While in all probability the child may never need hunting skills to survive, it shows the child that when necessary, humans are capable of enduring great hardships and emerging victorious. While most hunters go together as small groups, there is an individual responsibility that cannot be shared. A child learns that each person evolves their own morality and ethical viewpoint as applied to hunting, and soon discovers what is considered honorable and dishonorable behavior as applied to the outdoors.
A child learns an appreciation for the Natural World while hunting, that is often too far removed from the civilized society of today. An enthusiastic parent may seize the opportunity and teach the child about geology, animal behavior, and indigenous plants and trees. It is not only a learning experience for the child, but for the adult as well, as questions may arise that require further study.
Finally, hunting teaches a child the importance of the connection between conservation and the environment. A child who develops a love for the outdoors and hunting is more likely to become proactive in asserting their energies as an adult toward ensuring a better environment for all. Since present generations learn from their forefathers, this will promote future conservation efforts for centuries.
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