I have a Ruger 10/22T with a 4-12x40 on top of it. I plan on killing a ton of squirrels with it this year, and for many years to come (if I get many years to come lol). If you want your kids to enjoy squirrel hunting, you should get them some squirrel printed targets, you can find them in most gun shops and online, and let your kids shoot the 22LR at the targets and when they get good at head shots, THEN you should take them squirrel hunting. Kids have a ton of fun shooting at targets and when they finally get to kill squirrels for real not only will they be ready but they will enjoy the experience thta much more.