Surfing Waves

Hi, I am after some advice for my 8 year old son, he is currently using a 7ft soft board and is standing up reasonably well, I have been told that for him to develop he really needs to be on a proper board any idea's or suggestion on what I should look for?
I have surfed myself for about 20 years but dare I say it in a surf Kayak but I am keen for my son to Board surf and he loves it.
Any advice would be welcome, I would imagine we will be looking at 2nd hand to start with.
Thanks
Garry

How long has your son been surfing? I would rent or borrow a couple of different surfboards and see how he does. Then you can make a good decision before making a purchase.

I thanks for reply. This is first year on a board and he's not doing too bad, so looking to possibly upgrade next year, may well see what we can rent may well be a good move to try a few.
Thanks

My 8yr old nephew took to his dad's fish right away because it's still stable but better than a softboard. Also, his dad said that he was worried about letting him use a shortboard because they clang them around everywhere, the fish is heavy glassed so he doesn't worry every time it drops while he carries it LOL