I have two kids, ages 11 and 12 but they were 7 and 8 when we got our first maltese Lucy.
At first, my kids weren't 'allowed' to pick her up, she was definitely my dog but as time (and the maltese obsession grew) my daughter became REALLY involved and now shows Lucy in Junior Showmanship. She is 11 now and I trust her 100% holding any dog or puppy. My son, not so much.
Marina is really comfortable with the dogs so it makes it really nice. Here is a pic of her and her puppy this weekend. If my son was holding this puppy, he's be holding it very awkwardly , LOL
She does a lot of the bathing, grooming, feeding, etc so definitely she is involved.
Definitely keep an eye on your pup if your kids are teasing her. I know it happens, believe me! They just have fun and then get carried away.