I bought a second-hand kenmore 3/4 size, and while it doesn't have speed control, it is very simple and I think it would be a good beginner machine. It's a real machine, not a toy. There are only four or so stitch options - long straight stitch, regular straight stitch, wide zigzag and narrow zigzag. maybe there is one more, I can't remember. It's at my MIL's house right now. Anyway, my MIL and I use it as a backup machine and to take to classes and such, and it's works great for basic piecing. The lack of stitch variety is its major drawback for me, but it would keep things simple for a kid.