"C is too hard" isn't your worry at this stage. Get some kids doing stuff and worry about what language and platform to use when they complain. MicroPython might be easier; indeed... doesn't matter if none of the kids are interested in bending wires.

My small sample of "minecraft kids" were very willing to spend effort in minecraft and eager to learn for self directed goals. But none of that translated into the real world at all. Making real things was something they expect others to do, I think.

Best of luck; perhaps that wont be a problem for you.