I personally believe that kids that young don't need a relaxer whether lye or no lye. :0
My mom used to relax my hair at that age and there was no need!!
I have a curlier texture that I wear natrually short and it has been shoulder length. I think being happy with natural texture is imperative for young girls. When their older 12 or 13 let them experiment more when they have to take care of their hair. Also relaxers take a lot of upkeep. Is there an AA salon accessible for maintenance? If not, I'd recommend staying natural!!
Just my $.02! HTH.