I went down this similar path 3-4 years ago with my kids. Here is what I would go with:

Zebco 404 reels. Spool them with 14 lb trilene big game (spool is cheap). If you can find line onsale, thrown on flourocarbon.

Get some uglystick 6' med or med/heavy rods. The rod that comes with the normal zebco reel won't hold up to a 4 lb catfish.

I found some very cheap rods at academy last weekend and put the kids 404's on that. (oldest has moved on to a baitcaster)

Also, I had two combos per kid. One goes down, pick up the second for now. If that goes down, they take a break.

thank you so much! super helpful

First time I took #1 grandson fishing he got me on the forearm with a bream hook. Used this trick to get it out. Smashed down the barbs after that. He has not stuck me since. But he did stick his own calf. Very easy to get out!

Start them off with a 3 power spinning rod and reel. With a fluke or senko. Completely weedless, easy to cast, and will catch fish this time of year.