I just had supper with a friend last night who's little boy has a Black Rhino longbow. 20 lbs at 20 inches and a beautiful bow at that. I would like to help him out some and could use some advice from those of you that have and have worked with kids. This fellow is 8 years old.

1. Should we try to tune some arrows to the bow? (maybe to advanced , or not really viable at this stage?)
2. He does not use an anchor point or really have "form", how do I intoduce this.? ( I dont want to over whelm him and make it no fun)
3. He wants to hunt grouse. I know that field points wont work (experience ;-) ) any sugesstions? ( I feel broadheads may be out of the question at this level of shooter and bow)
4. Any other advice is welcome, it's been a LONG time since I was a beginner.
Thanks in advance,
and once again this site (and the people here)    
 

My son, Dawson is eight years old...arrow spine definitely makes a difference for him...the form will come later, but that's just my opinion...I just let him fling 'em to start out with...when he wanted to become more consistent, I started introducing more stuff about form (grip, stance, posture,anchor, etc.)...he is a super shot for his age...Just get him close enough to the target to hit it...my 2 1/2 year old is starting to shoot with us now...I just let him grip it and rip it...his attention span is pretty short now...Balloons make a great target, they get a kick out of bustin' 'em...

David

Here is a primer:)

Lexie was 7 in the first video. She was just getting the very basics down. She used a closed stance to allow a bit more back muscle in her draw.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wUTPVMmTqDY

This is her at 8. She is learning enough to pick up a few more fine details.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tY8uoJfOyOg

She had been around bows and bowhunting since her earliest memories. I've arrowed a deer with her in a Kelty child carrier on my back. This is our future and it is important that we make such efforts.

Good Luck,
Daddy Bear

At eight he should be able to get a couple of basics.  I say, after watching him fling a few, show him about anchor.  I learned on a kisser button, and I think that works really well for kids.  Give him one anchor, and watch him tighten those groups.  Then, as soon as you can, take him out for grouse.  The experience flinging arrows in the direction of live game will teach him more than anything at this age.

Thanks for the come backs guys, I'll use the advice. Now , to tune some arrows for him......

Tom