I read that you start teaching kids by having them stitch on wide lined paper with no thread. They can get some practice and control. I started my grandaughter this way she is 7 yrs old. We made a little blanket which we sewed some strip on the base fat quarter. So I steam a seam down the edges at the start and finish of the strip so no pins.
She love it. But it is hard standing over and letting her do it. I so wanted to just do it for her. Which isn't the idea.
ruthie