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I had very short attention span when I was young, and martial arts was the only thing that ever hooked me. I started with Jeet Kun Do (Bruce Lee's martial art) when I was seven and loved the fact that there were no set moves. Everything was mutable and I learned to find my physical strong points. I found the whole thing very organic and progressive, but unfortunately my sifu (teacher) left after 2 years. I then tried Judo in my early teens, which helped me learn how to fall properly and not be easily intimidated by bigger opponents (the bigger they are, the harder they fall), but ultimately chose Shaolin Kung Fu, which I've been practicing for 7 years (18-25). I was never attracted to Tae Kwon Do, because it was mostly kicks and was too strict for me.
Basically, I believe Jeet Kun Do did wonders for me as an introductory martial art. Discipline and respect are still taught, but students get to progress as they like. There are no belts, which can be good, since there is no pressure to "move up" or bad, since some people need tangible markers to represent their progress. I gained self-confidence, stayed fit and made good friends.
As for kung fu, I believe it's more for more mature teenagers / adults.
Juts my 0.02$ I hope your kid develops a passion for martial arts!
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