My daughter started doing NAM at age 6. Let me go over a few things. First, someone that your child knows, has done NAM or at least started the process. Everyone is asked if they know someone who might make a good representitive for NAM and they provide the name and address and this invitation letter goes out. Your daughter did EXACTLY what every girl her age does...asks to do it.
Cost can be up there. Fees for the pageant are about $400 but depending on where you live, sponsorship is able to be found. Dresses don't have to be expensive at all. This year we are with a different systen but my daughter is looking at being appointed the NAM Preteen for our state since we don't have a pageant here. This year was the first year I spent over $100 for a gown.
What do the girls get from doing the pageant? It depends on the girl. My daughter learned poise and how to handle herself better. She was extremely shy, didn't talk much in school and now, she's the center of everything and is always searching out new friends. NAM and ACP are NOT glitz pageants and for the most part, you will NOT find the cattiness you will in others. Girls your daughter age are not allowed to wear any type of makeup beyond clear lip gloss. Shoes are not allowed to have over a 2 inch heal and the dress and interview suit should be age appropriate.
If you do get talked into this, the cost can add up. There is a fee for all Optionals (Photogenic, Talent, Sportswear, Speech & Cheerleading) and then you must also buy tickets for the final pageant.
Does it add up...Yes. Can it help a girl...Yes. Everyone must make their own informed decidion before walking down this path. There can be many happy and sad tear filled moments but for the most part, my daughter has loved the past 5 years.
Katrina
