Kawasaki PY90 kids crosser, semi auto gear selection?

For selection of 1st gear, should the selector be pressed down, with the remaining 3 gears being upwards?
Was told when I bought the bike to click up for all gears. Not used a semi automatic before, and cant seem to get the knack of knocking it in 1st without the bike lunging forward and stalling?? Need any revs or none at all when knocking into 1st?
Cant engage any gear by pressing the selector down, but dont know if this is due to all gears being selcted up, or if 1st gear just not working/engaging.
Would appreciate any advice. Bought the bike for the kids xmas, but not sure they will be able to use it!!