from what ive seen cricketts are good starters, but not great overall guns. i got a rossi matched pair .22/410 for getting good grades, in the 4th grade, and i still use it, for plinking, and groundhogs, and squirrels. its youth sized, but it is really light, and pretty accurate. its breakbarrel design adds saftey, because you must pull the hammer back, then take it off safe. It also teaches shot placement. at his age though it doesnt matter if its the best gun, so long as he likes it and it gets him into the outdoors. Hope you and the little one have a great time learnig to shoot. If he hunts with it make sure to teach ethics, and shot placement.
Have fun and be Safe.