Toddlers N' Tiaras Taboo...Youth Pageant Discussion

More than 100,000 children younger than 12 participate in U.S. child beauty pageants, now a billion-dollar industry. Some of the contestants are just babies. Since JonBenet's tragic death, America continues to debate whether children really belong in such pageants. After this horrific case many became jaded by the mere idea of seeing a toddler coming down the runway in hopes of capturing her next crown.

With recent discussions, debates, and rather the media's often negative approach to the subject matter of youth beauty pageants, I personally thought a blog would be an appropriate outlet for me to share my own thoughts on this highly controversial subject matter. I have declined several reality series, documentaries, and talk shows over the last few years that I felt would not portray myself, my business, or my clients in the light that we all deserve.

A few weeks back I decided to catch up on some work at a local coffee shop. It was a completely stress free day as I answered emails regarding an up and coming pageant and downloaded photos that were being prepared for an online advertisement. It was at that moment the older woman sipping her coffee beside me peered over her glasses and glanced at the photo of a five year old on my laptop screen. She replied "that's absolutely disgusting, so creepy!" Of course at that point I found it in me to debate with her for a few minutes, but soon realized I was wasting my breath and it was rather hopeless to have this discussion with her.

So about me......I'm the director and owner of, yes according to some, a company that allegedly exploits little girls. Which to be honest with you makes me kind of laugh. Lil' Miracle Productions Inc. is a multi-faceted production company that specializes in the production and hosting of children's beauty pageants nationwide, orchestrating events that now award over 100,00 cash and prizes annually. My company has proven to be successful, as mothers will forever find their little girls to be absolutely adorable. And what a fabulous way to celebrate this, by putting your little one in a beauty pageant. What could be a better way to showcase your overall beauty and personality, but yet a pageant. Afterall, the Miss America icon has been around since 1921.

As prospective participants fill out their daughter's registration and emcee sheet and enter the world of pageantry, the concept and meaning becomes far deeper then that of of your toddler going home with a crown.

I often ask myself , how could some one not support the idea that pageants do build a competitive spirit? How is it any different than what is found on a soccer field, little league game, or really any facet of competition that we face our children with? It's hobby that just like any other and is not for everyone; but again it's just an activity that wasn't conceived to be meant for everyone.

However, it would be rather deceiving of me if I were to say that I don't see the uglier side at times. I do see the occasional pushy parents or the kids that are probably there for the wrong reasons. But how often do we see the Dad's cussing on the sidelines, fighting with the referees or pushing their sons to be football players, when it's evident that its just not in him.

However, you will find these obstacles in all activities!!! We are suppose to be educating our children, exposing them to diversity, and new extra curricular activities to help find out what truly is a good fit for them. I can honestly say that 75 percent of my participants genuinely seem to adore and love the experience.

We cannot judge or generalize the whole subject matter based solely upon a select group. I see how the media often portrays the young pageant girl looking miserable with mascara running down her face, but what they don't show the American public is the child begging to go to the next pageant to play with her friends that live cross country. They don't show the one who is so anxious for her turn and is being held back from climbing on the stage, or the child who is excited because she gets to pick which outfit she models next.

How many families do you really know who spend the entire weekend together and spend the whole weekend together doing something that completely involves their kids? On that note…pageants can truly be such an incredible outlet for mother and daughters or even fathers to bond, or yet the entire family to come together for that matter. I think these days the glitz, the glamour, and the mere idea of competition can jade or cloud some very important values. I know for a fact that my events are about quality time, encouraging and praising your kids, making new friends, and just having simple fun!
As for the aspect involving the glamour, the makeup, and all the glitzy clothes, most little girls love playing dress up. Last time I checked letting your kids do something that makes them happy was not a crime. A dance recital or any performance for that matter would incorporate make up and costuming and this I'm afraid has been a well accepted art in a performers world for centuries.

I recently read an article stating that the weeklyreader.com was taking a pole. Who Benefits from Pageants? Well, this is where I come into play. I myself am a product of the child beauty pageant industry. With over 17 years of pageant experience as a a contestant, judge, coach, and now owner director & owner, I without a doubt owe most of my qualities, skills, and success to that of pageantry. Most would agree that females that are the product of the so called, "pageant biz" end up with a sense of poise. I myself, accredit this as a huge asset that I have been able to incorporate personally and professionally.

Heck...I can honestly say I turned out pretty darn good. The confidence and skills I gained are irreplaceable, from public speaking, interview skills, and stage presence...my list could go on an on.

Despite all the controversy, there are tons of families and girls that are involved in pageants for the "right" reasons. It's a choice that should be left up to parents and the children involved. "Us" pageant people still have have a long road before achieving total acceptance by the world. Pageants can be utilized as an outlet to learn about competition, disappointment, and striving for goals, fulfillment of dreams, and perfecting skills and talents. These are all key components to being successful in life.

There is absolutely no doubt in my mind that the pageants I produce are filled with tons of Lil’ beauty queens. Some truly gorgeous kids have walked through my registration door, but to me beauty comes from within and is exemplified by dignity, grace, and poise. It’s not just a about winning the crown. So, despite the ridicule of the so called "child crown craze", I know for fact that my business is linked to building of confidence and molding these little girls into well rounded young ladies.

"