For many Fijian families, ages 6 to 10 are when our children become more curious, more social, and more confident with technology. They start using tablets at school, watching YouTube independently, and exploring games and apps with friends or cousins.

This is a crucial season — and a beautiful opportunity — to shape their digital habits before adolescence arrives.

As we close out this year, let’s give our children the gift of clarity, protection, and open conversations. Here are the Maroroi Project’s top guidance points for this age.

1. Talk openly about what they watch and play

Ask them to show you their favourite videos, songs, and games. Kids love to share — and when you stay interested, they naturally involve you in their online world.

2. Use kid-friendly platforms and set boundaries early

At this age, children need high protection in apps and settings. Use YouTube Kids, closed profiles, and platforms designed for younger users. Keep accounts private and limit who can contact them.

3. Teach them to pause and check before clicking

Children in this age group often fall for pop-ups, game ads, and random links. Create a family rule: “If you don’t know what it is, pause and ask an adult.”

4. Build habits around time, not punishment

Instead of “no screen!”, try “20 minutes after homework” or “screens turn off at 7pm.” Predictable routines help children feel safe and supported, not restricted.

5. Introduce the idea of ‘digital footprints’

Explain in simple words: “Whatever you post stays online.” Kids don’t need fear — just understanding. Try to refrain from big, long lectures, keep things short and simple.

6. Encourage kindness and respect online

Talk about cyberbullying early:

• Be kind in comments.
• Don’t share embarrassing photos.
• Tell a trusted adult if something unkind happens or feels unsafe.

7. Help them recognise tricky people online

Explain that not everyone online is who they say they are. Children should never chat with strangers, share photos, or send voice notes without your guidance. Fiji and the region have had rising grooming incidents — early awareness protects them. Gone are the days of stranger danger because anyone can very much pretend to be anyone online so it is very important to explain that not everyone online is who they say they are.

8. Keep devices in shared spaces at home

Living room, dining area, lounge — not behind closed doors. This creates natural supervision without making children feel watched or mistrusted. Think open spaces, open conversations.

9. Check games and apps for age ratings

Many popular games look harmless but allow chatting with strangers or include violence or gambling styles. Always review before approving. And always turn off location and chat tools.

10. Celebrate offline play, culture, and movement

Rugby in the yard, dancing, storytelling, cooking together, exploring outdoors — these experiences teach social skills and confidence that balance their digital life beautifully. Fijians do this so well naturally, don’t let digital technologies strip us of this part of our identities. Whether you’re reading this from the islands or away from home, stay rooted and grounded, remember technology is a tool to use safely and proactively.

A Maroroi Project Message for Parents of 6–10 Year Olds

You are doing a powerful thing by being present and involved in your child’s digital journey. Keep the conversation gentle, loving, and ongoing. The goal is not control — it’s connection.

Let’s end the year with stronger bonds, clearer boundaries, and children who are safe, curious, and well-guided online.

Until next time,

A