I have just taken the first few steps in metal working, more specifically for the purposes of knife making.
My kid showed some interest when I turned a block of wood into a clip point knife - and we have watched forged in fire for the last 2 years - so its something I would love to get her interested in.
That said - I am currently making a small propane firebrick forge and looking to find a reasonably priced hunk of steel to move some metal on.
If anyone knows where I can get a decent starter anvil let me know - I am interested in purchasing one.
Locally I would suggest looking and the Holland Anvil web site they are in Holland Michigan a local business and used anvils if you compare price per pound and shipping Holland might be good. I own personally their 260 pound double horn. Other options are any anvil shaped object. Hunk of steel from scrap/ cut off or Alro steel in Lansing. When we open back up you can access any of the 8 anvils in LMN smithy.
Hope this of some help
Some ideas for project to hone your skills check out Black Bear forge on YouTube just completed a series on hook of the week. Using materials from his s scrape bucket. Making hook are useful and you learn a lot of hammer control.