What is the best LEGO set for a 5-year-old just starting out?

Across r/lego threads and verified-purchase reviews at Amazon, Walmart and Target, the most-recommended starter pick is one of the LEGO Classic Creative Brick Box tubs (10696 or 10698). Reviewers consistently flag them as the best value for free-building, with a wide color palette, a few wheels and windows, and a storage box. For a kid who wants a more structured first build, smaller LEGO City sets aimed at age 5+ (like the Go-Karts 60400) are repeatedly cited as easy first-build wins.