Its important that these boats are not over powered and are very simple (no boards and only one rope to pull). Or the kids might not be able to handle them. We don't want ther kids being scared off.
RG,
Optimists are dangerous boats. They are so undercanvassed and wide that kids can sail when grownup's boats can't. Then conditions worsen, they capsize, can't keep it upright for time enough to bail out the water and need assistance in worse conditions than grownup's boats. Been there and done that - both the optimist and the rescue.