iPad

Your most economic upgrade for the iPad mini3 would be to consider the larger-screen iPad9 - this being a current model. This iPad model will represent a considerable cost-effective upgrade.

Choosing a current model will ensure maximum longevity; older models may not be supported by many current Apps - and may be restricted in being unable to be updated to the current version of iPadOS.

All current iPad models are capable of running the current iPadOS Operating System - this being iPadOS 17. All iPad models have broadly the same core capabilities. Models essentially differ in their ultimate performance and physical attributes.

You can compare iPad models here:

iPad - Compare Models - Apple

The iPad9 is the current entry-level iPad. The iPads Pro are the opposite end of the scale - top of the range, with cutting edge capabilities and hardware. Between these two extremes is the iPad Air5, this model offering a mid-range high performance option. The new iPad10 is cheaper than the iPad Air - and differs in position of the front-facing camera. The iPad mini6 is perhaps an entirely different proposition - offering a smaller form factor and other differences in hardware and ultimate capability.

All current models of iPad support Apple Pencil. If considering an Apple Pencil (remembering that many kids love to draw) ensure that you choose the correct Apple Pencil for your chosen iPad - as they are not interchangeable. Here is the definitive compatibility list:

Apple Pencil compatibility - Apple Support

You can see YouTube videos with comparatives