My wife and I both keep loaded handguns under the bed - - inside of a small safe called the "AMSEC Pistol Packer." These are unlocked by pushing buttons in a sequence that YOU program. It is easily manipulated in the dark. This strikes a fine balance between readiness and child safety.

They can be had for about a hundred bucks on sale and can also be wall mounted, so you can stage them in various parts of the house if you are so inclined.

Please be advised that in many states you are criminally liable if a child causes injury or death becuase you left a loaded firearm accessible to them.