Things to look for
Sewing Machines
Top Loading Bobbin:
This is the most crucial part to make the sewing experience enjoyable. If it looks like this picture then that is the easiest bobbin to thread and what they are use to using from using my machines.
Needle Up Button:
This would be my second preferred feature. It is the button that looks like a needle and raises your needle when pressed. You can do this manually but I find it is a source for many threading problems with kids. Having the button makes it a lot easier.
Good machine choices:
The Brother ST150HDH is the main machine we use at Sew Fun along with Brother CS6000i (not manufactured anymore) This has all the features I look for and is a bit heavier duty with more metal parts inside.