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A few things to think about as I tell these stories.
DO NOT visit an Astro club once.
Visit it a few times.
First hand experience with my kids on other interests (non-astro) showed that after the 1st visit they were excited, and enjoyed it.
2nd time it was all a bit so-so, and OK.
When asked if they wanted to return a 3rd time they weren't overly keen.
Except for one interest: Table Tennis. They loved it and kept wanting to go and stuck with it.
Then they got the equipment needed (some of those little bats aren't cheap).
So you will know how interested they really are if they want to return.
Things wear off if the interest isn't really there. Cost to me: A few dollars in petrol, not equipment.
Experience has also shown that kids that've dropped in at our Astro club are excited and want the biggest best scope NOW!
The 2nd visit they have a look through the scope but are more happy to sit and read the magazines.
About the 3rd or 4th time the parents ask if they want to come, the interest is waning with some.
BUT, the kids that do show interest and stick with it really enjoy using the clubs 8" Dob.
They find the 'Real' looking type of telescope dissapointing compared to the dob.
My youngest son was showing other kids aged around 8 - 14 how to use the 8" dob when he was only 11.
One of the local kids recieved a small refractor for christmas.
After about a week of him and the parents trying to get it to work, they turned up at my place asking how to use it.
I showed them.
Then they asked what I use.
I showed them my Dob, they found it heaps easier, and went and bought one.
Now they all enjoy it.
You don't have to do as I suggest.
Just think these stories through.
Note: I am not pro reflector, or pro refractor. I use both.
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