Whether it applies here, I don't know, but many people seem to equate guns with hunting without being cognizant of the stereotype.
I have found that many will take an interest when the subject can be maneuvered to the skill side and how it can be enjoyed by all, young, old, big or small, and even a lot of handicapped persons unable to participate in a lot of other sports.
The other method I have found is to start them out on milk jugs full of water instead of just paper. The visual reinforcement seems to make a lot of difference and many times they'll crack that forbidden smile of accomplishment.
This is especially true of the little ones. Setting them behind a 223 with bench rest or other good support and helping them hold and sight then having them look thru scope and pull trigger to blow up a jug imprints a lot more on the desire and memory than paper.
Not only do they lack the attention span and physical dexterity needed, they become quickly discouraged when the older ones are jumping up and down about hitting the black and the little guys can't even hit the paper.
So far as parents, that is one that is often best viewed as rained out because they usually still have that control problem, and you're still their kid regardless of what subject.