We have a rule for the children at my home that is a little unconventional. The rule is anytime they want to hold a gun, I will stop what I am doing and we will go get the gun in question, retire to a safe area, ensure the weapon is safe, and they can hold and examine it.
I do this for several reasons. First, I am disarming curiosity about guns. Second, I am teaching the rules of safe handling. Third I am able to have open conversations with my children about different guns, how they work, what they are for, etc. Fourth, I re-inforce to my children that I will always place time with them first.
When I first implemented this plan, we had a gun out almost daily. Now, about three months into it, it happens every few weeks. I have six children, so on a per child basis it is pretty rare. The two oldest will start going to the range with me this summer.
If you have children and guns, and haven't been there yet, get over to
http://www.corneredcat.com and read up on the comments about guns and children. Very good philosophy and application. Even if you don't have children and/or guns, there is some very good information there.