Janome makes smaller models that are great for kids. I bought my son their 1/2 sized blue Hello Kitty model when he was 5. They also have a 3/4 sized one (it's green, believe). It's very similar to their sew mini model, and stitches very slowly, but is a real machine- not a toy. (He upgraded to my old Kenmore when I got my Janome 6500, and is eyeing my machine now- he wants an automatic thread cutter and needle up/down button. )

Lisa

Hi Cheryl...I just googled "Children's Sewing Machines" and came up with quit a few places that have differne types of child machines. This might help in your search. I know when my daughter was a child Singer had a hand crankes machine that she really loved. But that was like 35-40 years ago. LOL. Well anyway hope you find what your looking for. Nan F.

Hi everyone, what would be a good first sewing machine for a 5 yr old that isn't too expensive and complicated. Anyone out there have experience with this??? THis will be a christmas gift and thought I should start looking now. Cheryl