Not sure that I would like a stick steer for grandkids. I had a stick steer and the 1 of the 2 thing I did not like about it was when running down the water my passenger was behind me and I could not see them or talk to them while running. With Grandkids I would want them close to me where I could see them when running down the river or lake. I could not talk to my fishing partner while running down the river, so we could not discuss strategy while running like we can while sitting side by side....but social distance is not a problem in a stick steer. The only other dislike was the ride up front was rough, but I hear they have seats that will take care of this. All this being said I still liked my stick steer it was a fun boat to drive and you did not have to get up to fish when you got to the fishing hole. Good luck in your search and tight lines.