And leave that kid totally defenceless against all the armed kids in the playground? What sort of monster are you?

For a country that has more guns that people. I think learning about gun safety at an early age is safer.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CDmgDlc-KUg

Works out fine more often than not, just don't give a 9yo a full auto uzi.

This kid may not be ready for semi, but she will be before she can comfortably hold a heavy aluminum/steel or wood/steel rifle. Gun safety is important for kids to learn if they're going to be around guns, typically if a kid learns to properly respect the dangers involved it cuts down on the 18 and life type scenarios. Sure, you can keep yours locked and you can vet their friend's parents before you allow them to stay over at the friend's house all you want, but you can never truly know if they adhere to safe storage around children or if they keep one out of the safe "where their kid can't reach (spoiler: he can). If they're aware of gun safety it increases the likelihood they'll snitch at the mention of "wanna see my dad's gun?" (and of course you should instruct them to do so regardless), it decreases the mystique of guns so they're less curious and more "been there done that let's watch that awful teen titans reboot abortion instead," and even if they did find themselves in possession or close to a firearm for some ungodly reason, at least they know how to safely clear the chamber, watch the muzzle, etc, so even if they ignore you telling them to get an adult (grounded for life for sure ofc), if they do handle the gun it decreases the likelihood someone will be injured.

Honestly, it isn't that bad a move, just be smart, you know, like no full auto uzis until you're 14. .22lr bolt actions (or air/pellets first then .22lr), then keep moving them up as time goes on (assuming they're interested and capable, but I mean, don't force em into ballet either lol).