I've crappie fished many years with good quality Zebco closed reels with no issue.  The drag and release on the 33 suck but the better models hold up well and don't twist line or spool line off the end like a spinning reel.

Buy a good quality unit if the kid is responsible and he will cherish it for years.  Resting the line every spring, keep it clean and oiled.

Some good jigs, bobbers, weights, hooks, and pliers. A couple of hula poppers and jitterbugs in various colors are fun in a pond.