My 5 1/2 year old has been attending my pistol club for just over a year and had his first training wit suppressed M&P22 a couple of weeks ago. There were people lining up to help out and provide encouragement for the little monster. we practice plinking coke cans at home with airsoft guns which I think is perfect for teaching the basics. He also loves patching targets at the club too, never have enough people patching.