I bought a 20 guage Fox BSE-e when I was 13. It is still a great gun. I got my son an o/u Ruger in 28G to start. It is wonderful, but it just isn't a S/S. The barrels dont open on their own, it doesn't snap shut in as lively a fashion, et.

When I moved up to a 12G (Steel shot - bah humbug) I started using an 1100. But, I am going to get a Ruger Gold Label. I am also trying to get my hands on a Remington S/S and a Guegot S/S my buddy inherited. Nothing comes to my shoulder like a S/S. The rest may shoot, but only with a S/S are you shooting.

For safety, I don't think any kid should have anything but a double.