Fishing with kids or first-timers? Keep it short
Choose somewhere with room to cast safely, an easy place to take a break, and a restroom nearby if your group needs one. Shade or an early start can help too. The first outing is going well if everyone understands what to do when a fish bites and still wants to come back.
Keep hooks simple and easy to control
A manageable single-hook rig is easier than a spread of complicated tackle. Set one clear hook-handling rule, keep pliers close, bring drinking water, and use fitted life jackets when the setting calls for them. Heat, wind, boredom, or a crowd may end the session earlier than you expected.
Make learning the goal instead of keeping a fish. TPWD's learn-to-fish resources are a useful starting point, and the bait and lure guide can help you pack less.