When I am in charge
, I will make it necessary for all drivers to pass something like Bob Bondourant's school of defensive driving before being allowed to drive. I have no children to speak of, but if I did, this type of training would be mandatory. For their first car, I would recommend a good handling car with modest, but adequate power. I would also encourage them to refine their driving skills by taking up autocrossing. I thought I was a pretty good driver back in my youth, but realized how much I had to learn after my first couple of autocrosses. I soon became a much better driver. I can't imagine driving my Cobra without having some serious driving experience under my belt. I still scare myself occasionally, but I always end a drive with a big smile on my face.
Rich