Baby Modeling is it Exposing or Exploiting your Kid?

By: The Fabulous Mariah HuQ

Ok I just got some great news! My baby cousin who you see here..Little Miss Carrington Elan just landed a great new modeling contract with Baby Einstein and Bright Stars. While I think this is fabulous news and wouldn't expect anything less from this little  baby Diva, others are not so enthusiastic about baby's in the entertainment biz..

This news sparked an interesting conversation between her mother and I, about the Child Modeling Industry. She told me how most people automatically assume she is a stage mother simply because she is supportive of her child's talent. You have to admit that being able to work a camera with your smile at the tender age of one or two is somewhat remarkable. I know, I know every parent thinks that their kid is America's most talented or smartest kid. But, on the other hand some kids just have either the "it" factor or an extraordinary look that just screams commercial! Either way I think it's worth a shot. Let the agencies be the judge.

The main thing is you not going overboard and becoming an obsessed "Stage Mom" and  keeping your kid focused on whats important, helping them keep their priorities in order and most of all teaching them that beauty is only skin deep. The entertainment business can be a very shrewd business and you want to make sure you develop your childs image of themselves before you  allow any agency or media to define them. It's important for them to know that they can be anything they want to be with the right amount of dedication, determination and development.  So, if you still think your little angel is a rising star here are a few things to remember when looking at agencies.

• Never pay an agency..If they want your kid they should be paying you not other way around. You may have to shellout some cash for some photos or a comp card but always shop around for the most cost effective rates..
• Go with a known agency that is reputable, and has great results. Ask questions about the child stars and corporations they have worked with etc..

• Rejection. When kids go on "go-sees" or auditions, there can be a lot of very direct rejection. Not tall enough, too big, crooked nose, etc. You should know before you subject your child to the type of rejection that agencies and clients often dish out, whether or not your kid is cut for that. Ask yourself if your child's self esteem will still be in place if someone says they are not good enough?
• Time. Presupposing your child really does have "it," the next question would be are you willing to help him/her balance the time it will take to embark on a career, against the time it takes to be successful at school? Also consider that being a stage or model mom is very demanding on your time as well. If you have more than one child, this could really become an issue.
• Values. We've all seen kids in the public eye that have made some hairy decisions. There are a lot of influences in the world of entertainment and fashion, some that you might not agree with. Is your child headstrong enough to resist negative influences? Do you think she has the maturity to remember who she really is if she were to suddenly made a lot of money or became somewhat famous?
• Rewards. If your child does land a great role be sure to remember it was his or her talent or look that landed the gig and the check that she/he earns should go into a college or savings fund. Yes your drive, support and dedication helped so you should definitely pay yourself a 15% agent fee out the money and don't forget to write-off gas and mileage on your taxes.

Good luck to you and your little stars! Landing a huge role is always Fabulousity at its Best..