Many places to shoot (if they are not private land) have outlawed targets like cans. I guess the logic is those often get left behind.
Another consideration is ground targets at close range can "skip" like a flat rock thrown at water. Projectiles can gain enough elevation to go over the top of the backstop.
I don't have to be in favor of rules to understand where they come from.
One ground reactive target that may work for you is the HD Polyethylene geometric shapes (ball,cube,etc) that move when hit.
A steel target that can provide a lot of fun is a dueling tree. Two people can have a lot of fun even with two single shot 22's. Crickets or Chipmunks are ideal. Its a bit like playing tether ball. You win by slapping all the targets to your opponents side. The 22 rimfire version is reasonably affordable.
A matched pair of 22 single shots an a brick of 22 ammo can be a lot of fun.(For adults,too)
A favorite reactive target of mine is to just take a 20 in or so length of lumber and rip a 3/8 in or so deep saw kerf groove the length of it.
It will hold up a number of saltines or Ritz crackers. Whoever owns the land has to OK the cracker crumbs you will leave. Rain,bugs,birds,etc will take them pretty soon. Pick up the big pieces.
Any steel target will generate SOME splashback, Anyone at the firing line could get struck. In any case, shooting glasses (eye protection) is important when you take a kid shooting.