Some really good advice here but I think Dave did make some great suggestions. I am a "re-beginner" - in other words, I was in the hobby and dropped out 20 years ago and now that I am retired I decided to get back into it. I have a friend here in town who talked me into coming out to the field with him last fall and I was standing next to him while he was flying and he handed me the transmitter and I had a blast. I had already been looking and decided on a Hobbico Nexstar but after flying his Magic decided that I hadn't forgotten everything so I bought a Goldberg Skylark which was the right choice for me. In your case I would give the Nexstar serious consideration unless you find someone with a used trainer that you can pick up at a good price. The important thing is to get help - I learned on my own years ago and spent more time repairing than flying. Another thing is - be prepared for that first crash, it will happen and don't get discouraged - we have all been there. As other people have noted you will find all kinds of help at the field and with the local club, join the club and the AMA - most clubs require AMA membership for the insurance issues.

The most important thing you said in your post was "You and your son" - this is a wonderful hobby to share, my boy and I spent a lot of time together in RC - he was into cars and we went racing every weekend - he drove and I was the pit crew/mechanic and we had a ball.

Good luck to you and your son. I think you will find that you really enjoy this hobby.

Bill Gordon