Why My Child is Participating in Pageants

Pageants Can Be a Negative Experience, Unless You Make it Positive

Having entered my daughter in her first pageant recently and being in the process of the second, I have to say that the article entitled “Things to Consider about Participating in Pageants” by Racheline Maltese is not only true, but also still very relevant. Ms. Maltese presents her argument on the downsides of pageants while not being negative. These are the marks of a true queen. Though I read and understand her article, and will heed her advice, my daughter will still be participating. One of the reasons is I would love my child to be as eloquent, well spoken (written), and positive even when dealing with negativity. I believe Ms Racheline Maltese’s experience in pageants has taught her to be so positive and cultured.

I will not let my child enter just any pageant. I understand the danger of dressing a child inappropriately. Jon Benet Ramsey was murdered the year after my daughter was born. The pageant we chose is and has always been age appropriate with NO makeup before the Jr. Teen level. Even at that point and beyond, it must still be appropriate.

Yes, pageants are an expensive hobby. I think it is cool that you get to raise money to pay for them. Already, we (both my child and I) have learned to ask for donation and to sell advertising and tickets. Previously, we could care less about selling anything at all. (Keep in mind that the reason my daughter was invited to the National Pageants was that she sold the most tickets.) With her long-term goal being an entrepreneur and millionaire by 21, these skills will definitely get her started on her way.

I had to stop and ask myself, for whom am I doing this. I am a competitive person, especially when it comes to measuring my child’s successes. I expect a lot from my kids and I want them to expect a lot from themselves as well. In the end, I know it is her decision because I have been holding her back from entering casting calls and such since she was 5. This is as much exposure as I am willing to let her have right no. That is not to say I am right behind her rooting her on.