If you happen to have kids or be a kid yourself, you'll know that kids in particular love taking photos. But most digital cameras produced aren't made for kids. Today, smartphones seem to be the most popular and easiest device to snap photos, but we need to ensure that kids understand and value photography beyond their smartphones. New photographer, especially young ones need to know how to use actual digital cameras.
For example, a teenager or a pre-teen might enjoy using a basic DSLR camera if he or she is interested in photography. This would be a great starting point for anyone of this age. Below are some other camera option for kids or teenagers with interests in photography.
For Ages 5 to 8
In this age range you will want to focus on a camera with durability that will also be inexpensive in case the kid drops it out a window or breaks it by accident. One camera option is the VTech KidiZoom which has 4x digital zoom and also has the capability to shoot videos. Although the VTech is a toy, the Nikon Coolpix is an actual camera which kids can use to take photos. You can even take this camera in the pool with you and snap photos underwater.
For Ages 8 to 10
For kids around this age, the Pentax or the Sony Cyber-shot seem to be good options because they are still tough but also stylish. One camera that you could buy them would be the Pentax WG-10 or the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-TF1. What's great about this camera is its Sweep Panorama mode which you can also use underwater.
For Pre-teens
In age range, durability is not as important because the kids are no longer children but turning into teenagers. Pre-teens can most likely handle cameras that are slightly more expensive and that could potentially break. The Canon Powershot provides a simple operation as well as solid image quality, Preteens might also like using the Nikon Coolpix S01 or the Olympus SZ-15.
Teenagers
If a teenager become serious about photography, then you should consider purchasing him or her a more advanced camera like the Nikon 1 S1 or the Olympus E-PM2. These are mirrorless cameras which offer much better picture qualities.
All of these cameras are good options for children, pre-teens, or teenagers in these age ranges. Each has benefits depending on the child's age and how interested he or she is in pursuing photography.