I have small Brother (LS 2125). It's a great little machine and I love it. The ONLY reason I'm in the market for a new machine is because I want more features... :lol: I have had my five year old sewing on it, no problems. It is simple to use, and works great. The only thing I wish it had, for use with youngsters, is speed control...but my 5yo managed to figure it out, I think an 11yo would be just fine.
I've read a TON of awful reviews on the Singer machine that is targeted to kids. Don't waste your time or money. My mother in law bought it for my daughter for Christmas, but I told her to return it after reading the reviews.
A lot of GREAT reviews on the 3/4 Hello Kitty Janome.