What kind of music does he like?

If the kid digs rock and country, don't go with nylon classical. Choose a guitar that he will appreciate.

I always recommend a fairly decent guitar for a few reasons.

1. A good quality guitar will sound good. Sounding good is key to wanting to play it.
2. A good quality guitar will be easier to play. Smaller/thinner neck and low action makes it easier to fret.
3. A good quality guitar will cost more but it tends to hold it's value better. There's a ton of guitars on the market that the person lost interest and the guitar has to be resold. With that in mind.... the second hand market is a good place to shop for a good quality used guitar that will be what he needs at this point.

Good luck

You can find my music at:
www.herbhartley.com
Add nothing that adds nothing to the music.
You can make excuses or you can make progress but not both.

The magic you are looking for is in the work you are avoiding.