Need some advice!

[helgriffan]

I got invited to a freinds house that was built int he early 1900s and as far as he knows, it has never been detected before. My concern is this, he has 2 young kids that are very interesting in metal detecting. Ive been detecting with them around before and they follow me and get their fingers in the hole when im digging, and Im just afraid they are going to get hurt or they are going to wreck the holes I am digging so I leave dead spots. Or if I find something they will grab it and scratch the heck out of it. Im glad they are interested in it... But I am also worried about my equipment and my professionalism...Hope that makes sense. Have any of you dealt with that, or have any good advice?
Thanks helgriffan

 

[Pastor bob]

I would sternly tell the kids that you will show them the find only after you have looked at it. Too many holes have glass or other sharp objects in them and we can't play babysitter to every kid that is curious about what we do. I let kids follow me around parks I hunt, but I tell them they have to stay far enough away so that I can do my job and see what is in the hole.

 

[Sooper Dave]

Kids know rules, they have rules at home, school, church etc.. Take the time to teach them the code of ethics, and then add in your rules. Keep your hands away from the holes so you don't get hurt from the digger. Don't rub on coins because it can scratch them, Leave a place cleaner when you go, then when you got there, etc.. If they can't follow rules then they can't participate, that's how I would go about it. My kids love to go with me and still have a large interest in learning the names of coins and relics. I quiz them all the time, I don't know any other 9 year old's that can ID Indians, Wheats, Seated, Barbers, SLQ, Buffalo & V nickels and other old coins. If the kids are into the hobby, feed the fire. I have a Saturday hunting trip planned for my girl and a friend from her class that has been wanting to go for months. I think he knows more about history than I do and is excited to go on his first hunt. I got started at 15 because of my Dad and a friend of his that was a big CW relic hunter.
It takes patients with kids, but it's a good investment to teach them the proper ways. Good luck to you, I hope it goes well and you make some awesome finds. HH David

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[helgriffan]

Thanks for the advice guys! Ill give it a try. Ill post if I find anything good!
helgriffan

 

[Johnnyanglo]

With kids, just give them something to do - they may leave you alone. Target a pull-tab and tell them there is something down there and that it may be something valuable. Then walk on and leave them to their frantic digging. While they're distracted you can detect.

For really obnoxious kids who want to practically step on the coil and push their face into the blade of the digger - I just sternly tell them to step back. Many kids have no upbringing and only respond to forceful commands. Some never take a hint and are impervious to warnings. But ultimately, if the kids are getting in the way you say, "I'm going to have to leave if you interfere again". And should they dive back into the next hole you're digging and begin sticking their hands into the dirt trying to find the "treasure" before you do, a very sharp digging tool cutting their hands isn't worth it. You gotta say adieu. Not worth accidentally hurting an ill-mannered kid. You can't afford the lawyer fees. Though I have on occasion 'accidentally' clunked one in the head with the coil - just a friendly way of reminding the tyke that his head shouldn't be there.

In the old days, you didn't want to upset an adult - they ruled the world. The consequences could be harsh - and then you feared your parents finding out you misbehaved. All very bad - you had to behave. Today - no one cares about adults and most parents are as much children as their own children. A veritable wasteland of infants and the infantile.

But like someone said - it's an opportunity to teach an empty-headed undisciplined child. You may be the only one showing any interest in him or her and if you strike the right tone you just might make a difference in their little lives.