LSWOODY, do you handload? I can see how this would be a fabulous excuse to get started. You've got time to work up a load for which ever caliber you choose. I would still favor loading a .243 or (or any .25) or 30-30 light...but would feel *okay loading a .22 "up" with some Trophy Bonded Bear Claw bullets for a young deer gun. Even then, I'd opt for the 22-250 instead of the .223

I hope this thread doesn't discourage you from taking your daughter hunting. Even if you decide to just hold off on letting her shoot till she's older take her along...she'll have a blast and something to look forward to when she can finally do it herself.