Either way you chose it's great to see a father taking the time to teach!!! I think 32 lbs. is enough, but with a kid you're gonna have to be right there, andYOU should make the decision on whether or not to shoot. Being the experienced hunter, you're passing along how to judge an ethical shot situation. I would definately take him out, but with the understanding and explanation (to him) that only the perfect shot will work with this bow, and he may not get that chance this season. Also, does your state require aminimum grain arrow?Andif so, will hisbow accomodate that size? A lot of states out west require minimum lbs on equip as well as minimum grain arrow. In Ut., Id. andWy. I think 300 is the min. arrow grain and 40 lbs min. bow, but we're shooting mostly muleys and elk (quite a bit larger than whiteys.)