Beauty pageants for 12-year-old girls are controversial, as critics say they exploit children by pressurizing them to adopt adult mannerisms. Critics also argue that pageants send the message that physical appearance is all-important. Child protection charity Kidscape says the competitions are harmful because they signal to girls that their worth is based on their physical appearance. Still, some women argue that beauty pageants can boost a young girl’s self-esteem and confidence.
It can be an uncomfortable experience for a 12-year-old to wait backstage before her turn. To keep herself amused, try giving her some coloring books and a hand-held video game. Coloring books with crayons or markers are also a good source of entertainment. Avoid using markers, though, because they can leave marks on her hands and arms. The sexy beauty pageant will be memorable for her, but she may not be ready to meet her friends there.
The child beauty pageant industry has been around for several years. It started with the Palisades Amusement Park’s Little Miss America competition, which attracted up to 6,000 girls each week. This competition is responsible for shaping child beauty pageants as we know them today. Judges consider a child’s looks, poise, and personality when selecting a winner. The winner of this competition receives a sparkly crown, a trophy, and cash.
Child beauty pageants are popular in the US, where around two50,000 children compete each year. The events have even been portrayed in popular culture. For example, the 2006 movie Little Miss Sunshine was based on real life. The HBO documentary Living Dolls chronicled the life of a child beauty pageant, Toddlers & Tiaras, was based on a true story. There are also many filmed versions of child beauty pageants.