My brother is in production and has access to all kinds of high end gear. For his own family stuff he uses an iPhone, whatever the latest and greatest is at the time. He takes phenomenal pics and videos. Surely part of it is skill after years in the industry but, he is very impressed with what he can do with a phone.
Does she want to get into photography (interchangeable lenses, tripods, post-processing, etc.) or does she want to get decent pics of the kids and adventures?
In either case, I'd call camera land and talk to Doug or Neil. There are some great point and shoot options.