You might consider the che

You might consider the cheap Flip Video camera. It is a flash memory based solid-state unit that is fairly rugged. At about $100, it is not a big deal if it doesn’t survive long term.

If your eight year old is fairly responsible, I too would go used. A feature-laden Digital8 camera could probably be had for about the same amount as a Flip camera. Personally, I would tend to buy locally through Craigslist.org for used electronics so that I could check out the camera well before buying it.

Good luck,