My son was about 8-9 when he started with an 870 20ga youth, then we figured out he was left eye dominant. Switched to a BPS and never looked back.
As far as SCTP goes, I have 2 high schoolers shooting and I also help coach. My advice would be to start with a BT-99. I made my son and daughter both only do 16yrd and Handicap their first year (my son started in 6th grade and daughter as a freshmen). Had them focus on the fundamentals before getting into skeet/doubles/sporting clays.
They both have State and National titles to their credit, and love the shooting sports. There are many great people and kids from all over the country they have met through the sport.
Keep it fun, keep it positive and it will last them a lifetime.
