Would it be better, if children from early age understand the whole path of a gambler and being addicted? To test everything on their own skin. Would it better if they gamble and lose in childhood, that when they turn adult, they would already have experience. I mean, when they are kids, they cant make as big fails as they make while being adults. Isnt it better for kid to lose lunch money and learn the lesson, than to lose a monthly salary at the age of 40 ?
I understand that you are referring to "learning by experience". But think of it... what if these minors are not yet disciplined and feeling responsible for any money that they use regardless if they own it or not (from parents/guardian).
It would not be a good learning experience. So better to have a proactive and reactive solution to this one. Imagine if they use hundred of thousands of their parent's funds.
Kids can be limited with "use their own money the way they want". Of course if they add their parents credit card to online casino that will end really bad, but if they first get their own money (lunch money, xmas presents, change for example) then why not let them gamble?
This whole case will end with endless discussions; such as "the more you forbit something, the more kids will want to test it" and "situation when a person just ended a college, and during trying to get work, employer ask for an experience".
I've played card games or monopoly with my kids. We have even used real money as a reward for a winner. That is sort of a gambling. Even if they win or lose, they are not that much interested in gambling to connect their whole life with it.