I think I got it narrowed done to a Savage Rascal or a Marlin XT-22.
Marlin has the advantage of moving beyond single shot, which is nice but I think at that point we may be ready to move on beyond both a dedicated youth rifle and bolt guns.
Savage, single shot bolt gun, has rear peep sights. Truly a youth rifle could eventually shoot it off hand.
Any other suggestions for new young shooters. I think I will have shoot off bags for awhile.