I teach both kids and adults and the biggest differences new painters notice are thickness and drying speed. very cheapest craft paints can be tempting for the price and but they often feel chalky and lock up too fast and while artist lines can be more than you need starting out. Student grade with a soft or medium body hits the sweet spot, smooth enough to glide yet still opaque when you want solid coverage. Look for labels that mention lightfast or good permanence so your pieces do not fade in a sunny window, and choose a satin or matte finish to reduce glare.
If you are unsure about a brand's feel, start small before getting a whole set, then round out with the hues you both use most. Test one color first, you will know within minutes if it suits you. Skip neon and glitter colors for now, they tend to be weaker in coverage and cost more than they earn, and you can always mix lively tints from the basics that kids love.
