Father-in-law has a zodiac tender with small parsun outboard.
I have taken it out few times myself also.
Great little motor, never missed a beat and it was fairly cheap.
Although the outboard is always serviced, it never gets flushed.
I would gladly do all the shallow water creek work with it.
I think it is important to educate the kids for possible problem scenarios.
At some point they will have a problem regardless.
Take them out with adult provision, pull the lanyard hidden and see if they can figure out a solution, etc...
As long as they represent to be safe, it will be a great adventure for them.
Well done mate