[seabird]

Playing tag presents a real risk for injury. Climbing a tree presents a real risk for injury.

Any kid that is old enough to understand the concept of programming a computer and being interested enough to pursue it is old enough to solder. Don't grab the iron by the business end. Wear your safety glasses. Don't inhale the smoke. It's that easy.

[sopooneo]

I think there is an age where it is reasonable to allow children to climb trees, play tag, and where they might be interested in building a computer, but would not be mature enough to trust with a soldering iron. That easy or not.

[seabird]

We're not talking about a chainsaw, a lathe, or a tool that requires a certain amount of strength or non-intuitive understanding. Safe usage of a soldering iron is safety glasses, not breathing the (fairly irritating) smoke, and not touching the hot end. It is about as dangerous as a screwdriver or a hammer.

[khedoros1]

Although, like those other tools, having someone skilled show you the ropes is a great benefit. There are lots of ways to solder incorrectly without burning yourself.

I think I was about 10 when my grandfather taught me to solder. I think the safety level really depends on the kid, and a little early-on guidance.