I'm in the same boat K. My khukuri came with a small utility knife that I told my son he could have (when we are camping or fishing) but then my daughter got jealous so I gave it to her and gave my son my old Gerber A410. Not special knifes but it's a start. I told them both that if they show RESPONSIBILITY when using them that I would get them NICE blades if they wanted.
As for what to start your son on I'm not sure. I just wanted to relate my similar story.