Islabike Cnoc14 Gearing

Hi
Got a second hand one last year and the little lad can now ride it on his own but it looks like he is really struggling to pedal it, and grinds to a holt on anything not completely flat or downhill. Which in Sheffield ain’t a lot.
At the park yesterday, someone else had one and the front chain ring looked tiny. So I’ve had a count up and he has a 32 on the front and a 18 on the back. Is this excessive or do I tell him to toughen up!
Anyone else got one and mind have a look what you have on it?
Thanks

Our two children have cnoc14’s, the newer one has a smaller front ring but in my opinion it’s more of a limitation as my son will spin out when he gets some speed up. Our daughter doesn’t seem to struggle with her higher gearing, I’m sure Isla bikes would sell you the latest chainset if you asked.