How to Enter Children in Beauty Pageants

Beauty pageants for children is a subject of debate. Some people feel it encourages competition; others believe that pageants exploit children. Choosing to enter a child in a beauty pageant is not a decision to be taken lightly. Learn what to expect when you enter your child so you can have a successful pageant experience.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Find a pageant in your area or any location where you are willing to travel. Search on the Internet or ask family and friends who've been involved in beauty pageants.

2. Ask the pageant director or coordinator about the featured categories. With your child, decide which categories to enter. Assess your child's skills to see where she would perform the best. Look for the appropriate attire for each category.

3. Inquire about the beauty pageant entrance fees. There is usually a mandatory registration fee and smaller fees for any additional categories your child enters. The attire for the categories is often included in the entrance fee. Confirm before you register.

4. Hire a pageant coach to guide your child through the competition. These specialized professionals have experience coaching poise and talent and will provide competition tips. The fees for a pageant coach are generally $100 per hour.

5. Prepare for the rigors of competition. The first day of the competition includes the registration, orientation and an interview. The second day is the actual competition. Depending on how many categories your child has selected, prepare for lulls of activity. Have something for your child to do in between pageant categories.

Tips & Warnings

• Never force your child to enter pageants against her will.