First of all,I don't have any small children at home.But have kin that are small,but they all know about firearms,so no problem there.I feel that you should have protection on hand for you and your family.It is better to have it and not need it,than to need it and not have it.I have a gun in every room of my house,in my Jeep,my Dodge truck,even outside house in my out building.Every member of my family knows this,where they are and most important how to use them.I think education about firearms and their purpose and use is the key here.I think guns should only be own and use by people that have their heads screw on right,if you catch my driff.Good judgement is most important,cuz you can't take a bullet back.......Rick