If you are lucky, you may even be offered a ride in their plane. Start obtaining your pilot's license. Most aviation schools start quite young, and the age restrictions on flying a small aircraft are less stringent than for driving a car in California. The Explorers at San Carlos have done well at Diamond Aviation . There is no legal minimum age for starting on your license.
Picture books are always a hit for the youngest aviation enthusiasts.
Books about specific planes rather than general plane books seem to work the best. The Flight Shop at Hiller Aviation Museum has a fine selection. An excellent assortment is available at the San Carlos Airport and Palo Alto Airport pilot supply shops, and at shops at many general aviation airports. The best books will depend on the maturity, interest, and reading ability of the child. The general interest and history of aviation collections at the Flight Shop at Hiller Aviation Museum provide a solid background and introduction to aviation.