re: Took 4 year old Tigerdeacon Jr. to the stand this weekend . . .

Hats off to all you young dads taking your kids hunting!!! I remember quite well some of the hunts I took my kids on. Whether or not they end up becoming a hunter, it's still invaluable time you're spending w/ them. Develop FOND memories. Having said that, here are a few unsolicited tips from one who's been there and enjoyed it:

1. It's unlikely you'll kill a deer while the very young are hunting w/ you.
2. At a young age, begin teaching guns SAFETY, appreciation of the outdoors and hunter ETHICS.
3. Accept the limitations of taking a young one hunting. If they get tired, hungary, cranky, etc., it's time to go home, even if you're not done hunting. At that point, staying on the stand will more than likely lead to them having a BAD hunting experience, the last thing you want.
4. Evenings are usually better than AM's for a hunt.
5. Buy a pair of insulated overboots (e.g. "Arctic Shield") for your kid to put on when you get to the stand. They're a LOT warmer than kids boots and can be used for a number of years before being outgrown. If you find a nice pair of warm boots for your kid, they'll be too small in a few months.