Spinning Reels

Question
My son has a new fishing reel.  A spinning Reel.  This may sound stupid, But we do not know how to set it so it will reel in.  The line is already on the reel.  I guess we don't know how to work it

Answer
Hi Sheila,
This is actually a good question because many people would like to try a spinning reel and don't know how to use it and are afraid to ask. So thank you for it.
Start by mounting the reel on the rod. Then flip the bail (the wire part that is across the front of the reel) open. Run the line through all the guides, pulling out a few extra feet. Now, flip the bail shut . One of you should hold the end of the line, keeping a little tension on it, while the other turns the reel handle. It should now be retrieving the line. If it does not you will need to turn the adjusting knob for the drag until it does. That knob will either be located in the center of the line spool, or on the back end of the reel. Proper adjustment of the drag is important when he's fishing with the reel, so set it at the point where the line spool will turn and release line when you pull the line out and down when the rod tip is held up and you have about a 45 degree angle between the rod and the ground. You should have to pull quite hard, just short of what you think would break the line. As an aside, when a fish is taking line your son should stop turning the handle until the fish stops pulling. This will help minimize line twist, which can be a problem with spinning reels.
One more thing.. the handle of a spinning reel can be changed to make it usable for a left or right handed person. I see many kids who don't know this and try holding the rod upside down to make it easier for them to reel the line in.
I hope this answers your question, and I apologize for the slow answer. I'm in the middle of a 3,000 mile road trip and haven't had internet until just now.