If he's the fidgety, no patience type of kid (and most are) then crankbaits and spinnerbaits are ideal. Get a couple each for shallow, medium, and deep diving. Most stores have bargain bins with Yozuri lures for $3 or so each. Rapalas run as much as $10 each.
Cast 'em out, reel 'em in. The lures supply the action. And they catch fish.
