Early Primary

Ages 5-7

Early Primary (5-7)Middle Primary (8-9)Upper Primary (10-11)

Children are just beginning the shift from pre-operational to concrete operational thinking. This is typically when first contact with gaming platforms happens — through chat features and multiplayer modes — before social media enters the picture.

1 in 5 children aged 8-11 have had an experience online that upset them (Ofcom 2025)

Key Risks at This Stage

HIGH

Online Contact from Strangers

Gaming platforms (Roblox, Minecraft) and chat features expose children to contact from unknown adults. Grooming behaviours typically begin on gaming platforms before moving to private messaging.

MEDIUM

In-Game Spending & Loot Boxes

Roblox, Fortnite, and FIFA use gambling-like mechanics (loot boxes, random rewards) that exploit children's developing impulse control. Average spending: £50-100/month unmonitored.

Recommended Actions

Gaming Safety Check

Review friend lists, chat settings, and in-game purchases on every gaming platform. Enable all parental controls available.

Family Agreement

Create a written family agreement about screen time, acceptable apps, and what to do if something goes wrong. Review it together monthly.

Open Communication

Establish the habit early: "You won't get in trouble for showing me something that worried you online." Make yourself the first port of call.

Conversation Starters

Online Friends

"Who do you talk to when you're playing online? Do you ever chat with people you haven't met in real life?"

Uncomfortable Content

"If you ever see something online that makes you feel worried, scared, or confused — even a little bit — I want you to come and tell me. You will never get in trouble."

Platforms to Watch

Roblox

Min age: 13+ (no verification)

Risk

Chat with strangers, inappropriate user-generated content, in-game spending

Action

Enable Account Restrictions. Disable chat. Set spending PIN. Review experience history.

Minecraft

Min age: None officially