Out of curiosity, why the bolt action over semi-auto? I went looking for a bolt-action myself recently to teach the kids and ended up with a Ruger 10/22.
My 2 cents, but I defer to you on all things petroleum.
Speaking as an NRA Instructor for the last 21 years, the number one reason is safety and control of the situation. For a kid it's too easy to get lively with the muzzle and the trigger and send rounds everywhere without regard for safety. Especially kids raised on video games and modern media. 10 rds from a 10/22 will go sizzling downrange in less than 2 seconds and once fired those rounds can't be recalled no matter how much you may want that. Reason #2 is to make certain shooter technique is correct. With a bolt in recoil and those tiny movements going on, it's more difficult to analyze technique like grip, trigger control, breathing and follow through. Marksmen are born of necessity. Having only one shot available makes you better. Having 10 shots engenders the spray and pray mentality, mostly because it's so much fun! But fun doesn't breed competence. I use a single shot bolt action to start children out on and move to a Single Action Ruger Super Single Six when it is time to move onto handguns from rifles. Same principles apply for the handgun but more so.