As both a mother and grandmother, I’ve always taken the responsibility of being the family protector seriously. But it’s not just about my own preparedness—it’s about raising kids and grandkids to understand the importance of safety, respect, and awareness when it comes to firearms.
Recently, I had the opportunity to share my thoughts on WDTN Channel 2, where I addressed gun safety around children. This conversation followed a heartbreaking incident involving two brothers, ages 6 and 4, who found their family’s firearm and accidentally discharged it. The round grazed the 4-year-old’s head, a terrifying reminder of what’s at stake when safety measures aren’t followed.
This post is for mothers and grandmothers who want to create a safe, understanding environment for their families—one where firearms are respected, not feared, and where children learn the why and how of responsible self-defense.
1. Start the Conversation Early: Build Respect Over Fear
Kids are naturally curious, which is why I believe in addressing the topic of firearms head-on. When my kids or grandkids ask about my firearm, I use age-appropriate language to explain: “It’s not a toy. It’s a tool I use to keep us safe.” Open communication takes the mystery out of it and establishes a foundation of respect.
2. Non-Negotiable Boundaries: "Do Not Touch" Rules That Work
Clear boundaries are essential. In my home, the rule is simple: No one touches grandma’s firearm without her permission and supervision. This rule is non-negotiable, and I reinforce it consistently. Children need firm, consistent guidance to understand that firearms are off-limits unless they’re being taught under strict supervision.
3. Safety as a Family Routine
Firearm safety isn’t just something I do privately—it’s a family value. Whether I’m locking up my firearm, checking it, or practicing at the range, I explain the steps I’m taking and why they’re important. Kids and grandkids learn by watching, and modeling responsible behavior teaches them what safe habits look like in real life.
4. Teach Age-Appropriate Lessons
With little ones, the focus is simple: “Don’t touch, and tell an adult if you see a gun.” As they get older, I start introducing them to gun safety basics, like understanding the parts of a firearm, how it works, and what to do if they encounter one. Giving them knowledge tailored to their age helps them build respect without fear.
5. Situational Awareness: A Skill for Life
Carrying isn’t just about firearms—it’s about staying alert. I play awareness games with my grandkids, like spotting exits or identifying who’s around us in a room. These small exercises help them develop confidence and mindfulness, which are essential for self-defense and general safety.
6. Reinforce Positive Behavior
When my kids or grandkids show responsibility or demonstrate an understanding of safety rules, I praise them. Positive reinforcement—like saying, “You did a great job remembering our safety rule”—helps instill pride in being responsible.
7. Share the Why Behind Self-Defense
I make sure my family understands the heart behind why I carry. It’s not about being scary or aggressive—it’s about love. I carry because I love them enough to be ready to protect them if the unthinkable happens. Teaching this value helps them see that self-defense is rooted in care and courage, not fear or recklessness.
Lessons from the News: Safety is a Family Responsibility
In my recent interviews with WDTN Channel 2, I emphasized how tragedies like the recent incident involving two young brothers underscore the critical importance of firearm safety in homes with children. When kids find unsecured firearms, the consequences can be devastating. This isn’t just a reminder to secure your firearm—it’s a call to educate your kids.
We must treat firearm safety as a family responsibility. Teaching our kids and grandkids to respect firearms and understand the rules could be the difference between a close call and a tragedy.
Lessons from the News: When Nerves Hit, Keep Going
In one of the segments I did with WDTN Channel 2, I’ll be honest—I was nervous. Like, “What was I even trying to say?” kind of nervous. At one point, I lost my train of thought entirely. It happens to the best of us, right?
But here’s the thing: talking about something as important as gun safety isn’t about perfection. It’s about showing up, speaking from the heart, and being real. And if I’m being real, sometimes nerves just show you how much you care about the message you’re sharing.
So, if you notice me fumbling a bit in the video, just know this: I’m a mom, a grandma, and a human. I’ll take a little stumble if it means I’m still getting the word out about how to keep our kids and grandkids safe. Because this topic? It’s worth a few nerves.
By teaching gun safety young, we raise kids and grandkids to value responsibility and respect. It’s not about scaring them—it’s about empowering them with knowledge and confidence, while keeping them safe in every environment.
Whether you’re a mom, a grandma, or both, we have the power to shape a generation that’s safer, smarter, and more prepared. We’re not just protecting our families; we’re setting the standard for what it means to live responsibly and love fiercely.
So, let’s keep leading by example—nerves, stumbles, and all—because our kids and grandkids deserve nothing less.
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