[Hildy]

However, the kid beauty shows are just out and out weird. Why is it any weirder than Community theater? Band camp? Etc. What does it teach kids? It teaches them to show up, it teaches them confidence, grace, MANNERS, how to think on their feet and how to put on a good face even when you're feeling bad. THAT's what it teaches young girls. I'll take a girl with those qualities anyday over the kind of girls I see on the streets in my neighborhood.

[durasell]

Acting, dancing, music etc. are very specific talents that can be developed through hard work, practice etc. etc. And even if the kid never gets beyond hideously bad, they may still garner an appreciation for the craft.

Also, these skills are not generally competitive beyond the audition for a seat or part.

Beauty contests are these competitive ventures in which the determining factors are so varied (and in some cases beyond the kid's control) that I can only imagine the games it plays with their heads.

I'll admit that I may be wrong, but I know the fashion industry and have had no little experience with models -- and let me tell you, they are not generally a well-adjusted bunch.