Glass is used as a cutting surface for paper, but you use a fixed blade and drag it against the glass. A rotary blade needs a surface that will accept the blade a tiny bit.

Why not go onto Joann's online or Walmart online and pick out and pay for one? Have it delivered to the nearest store to her home as a gift? Walmart will deliver to any store at no additional cost...not sure about Joann's, but its worth checking. Safety first always -- its a good idea for her to start out in that mindset.

JoAnn's often has 50% off sales on their rotary cutting supplies. That is how I purchased my extra large cutting mat. Or use a JoAnn's coupon (40-50%) when the mats aren't on sale.

I went to a quilt show hosted by a local quilt guild. I bought a big used olfa mat for $3.00.

I got a nice mat for cheap at hobby lobby in the drawing/engineering department. Good mat.

You can buy cutting mats reasonably priced with a 40% off coupon at Joanns and frequently they will be on sale and there will also be a additional % off coupon. Also you really do not need a "giant" mat. I have a 12x18 mat wich works just fine and was about $12 after coupon at Joanns. It ia possible to get away with even a smaller mat. A good rule is to buy the biggest mat you can afford.
Using glass- Bad idea!!!!!

If she cannot afford a cutting mat, tell her to use a good pair of scissors. You do not want her going to the hospital for cut fingers or hands.

I've not tried it, but she may have a wooden cutting board in the kitchen. Not a long term use but in a pinch.

I bought mine at Walmart and have used it for two years now and it still works fine. I paid eleven dollars for it when i purchased it

maybe Grandma or her Mom can get her one for Easter instead of candy