'Specially for kids that age - a simulator rules. If you can't afford one, Geist's advice is good. Lots of clubs (most?) won't let you fly unless you're AMA members.

With that said - you've gotta learn to fly, too!!!

With THAT said - Cox U-Control? They're horrid flying things. Dig up Mike Otgren on the Web in the U-control areas. His planes are called Plastic Fantastics (Funtastics?). They're foam flying wings with packing tape covering and Coroplast flying surfaces. You can get 2 1/2A planes for $20 - at least, you used to be able to - and they fly well and are absolutely indestructible.....they fly well with Cox engines.