I started my granddaughters on a Janome Jem Gold, they are small but very sturdy, easy to use, they could thread it themselves. One granddaughter was a pedal to the metal type, loved to sew fast but this machine did well for her. She is now 16, still sewing and very creative. Another granddaughter likes to go slow and precise, this machine was great for her also. I also started grandsons on it, they haven't taken off with sewing but at least can do the fundamentals. and have a machine at their house.
It is also a great travel & class machine for me and I like that these machines are at my daughters home when I visit.