Hunters Ed Age Question

[huntingfool7]

The class was out of Black Lake Fire Station in Tumwater. The head instructor was great and talked my son into staying and completing the class and take the test to see how he did. All of the instructors were great except 2-3 that were not shy about younger kids taking the class. They think they (WDFW) had dumbed down the class for younger kids and don't agree with it.

The class was in Littlerock and it's a pretty tough course. Don't think they have cleared brush in 10 years.

As instructor of many years, and one who dosent always agree with the dept. I would suggest you contact the Hunter Ed Dept. or write a factual letter.
Everyone one should remember you can appeal any Hunter Ed result to the Dept. and if your claim is founded. They can reverse any instructor decision if it is not suported by policiey.
That is a good way to get changes. 

Craig- You didn't post the reason given for your son failing.  Didn't the instructor explain the reason for failing?  Sometimes lessons learned while failing stick and it's better than a slap on the back, here's your card.  Better to fail on a "hard" course than in the field.

All of the HS instructors I know pull for the kids and want to see them succeed.  None take enjoyment in failing a student. 

While it's not a surprise when an 8 or 9 year old doesn't make it, more pass than not.  Almost all of them learn from their mistakes and pass the second time around.  I call that time well spent teaching safety.

[elkoholic1]

my son took and passed at 8years old, he understood everything when it was read to him but not so much when he read by himself so one of the other kids dad was able to read my son the questions and then my son answered and was able to pass     good luck its great times hunting with your kids

[arrowflinger]

Depends on the kid. We had a 7yr old pass and a 10yr fail. Please make no mistake that as instructors we are not out to fail kids, but the state has regulations for passing. We try to help as much as we can with out giving them all the answers. Also, please do not get upset with the instructors if a kid fails. Is it so bad if they go thru the class again and learn more. 

[C-Money]

My daughter is 8, and is currently in the class. She is enjoying it, and doing well. Week two starts tonight.

[Old Man Yager]

My son took it when he was 9, passed the written, and failed miserably on the field test. So, we waited 2 years, and then he passed. He did better after 2 more years of handling the firearms in the field with me.