Great that kids are still taking an interest in learning a "real" instrument rather than decks or studios.
I leant my note location by learning the relationship with the e string - 5 up or 7 down for the next string, 2 up for a 2 string gap, 3 notes down for a 3 string gap. A lot easier for a beginner.
I think it's important that beginners can see progress quickly to retain their interest - teach 'em "The Chain!. Everybody knows it as the them from the F1 - They can impress their friends.