You asked for opinions…..
The hemi and suspension mods won't make the car that much safer. A huge part of safety comes from a responsible driver. The mods will make it a better driver.
I wouldn't bother with the expense of an AlterKation kit unless you are also upgrading your wheels and tires to something like 16s-18s.
I would never put such a car in the hands of a child.
You could go with a standard small block, and standard suspension (with the common mods). With the money you save buy your kid a dart or duster with a /6.
