by Laura Byrnes

Created on: May 27, 2008

Now this is certainly a tough question. Do I think the modeling industry is a good place for children? No, it's not really a good place for anyone. But should we let them follow their dreams? Absolutely.

Before I start sounding heartless, let me start with a bit of a story. When I was three years old, I decided I wanted to be a ballerina. And not just a ballerina for a few years, I meant a professional ballerina. When I was old enough my parents enrolled me in a ballet class. As I got older, I moved up to a ballet school and started pursuing it as a career. That is, until reality hit me in the face and I saw how harsh the industry really is. I came out of that situation as a very unhealthy teenage girl with a lot of scrapes and bruises..but I don't regret a minute of it. Yes, it gave me a horrible self image. But I learned first hand what that was like, and got to experience it for myself. If I wasn't allowed to do that, I would have always been wondering. And I would have resented my parents for not allowing me to see what a beautiful art ballet really is.

All of us learn through mistakes, children more than anything! They haven't seen the realities that the rest of us have. So when they look at being a model they see only the fame and beauty, and nothing you say is gonna change their dreamy little minds! That's not say that you should stick your kid in magazines the minute they mention modeling. Talk to them about it - and not just the bad parts! See what they like about it and try to teach them about it through example. Maybe you have a local magazine where you could watch a photoshoot, for example. Be a part of their exploration into this newfound world.

If when they get older and more serious they still want to pursue such a career then you can simply support and be there for them. Make sure they know the dangers they're getting themselves into and give them the tools they need to survive in such a situation. Just like in my story, my parents raised me in a way that I was comfortable going to them for help when things got tough. I did so, and they helped me with every tool they had at their disposal.

What it all boils down to is this: dreams are sacred. Do I want my child to grow up and stumble into the modeling industry? Absolutely not! It's a terrible, harsh industry and I don't want to see them go through that. But would I stop them from pursuing their dreams? Never. I would encourage them, assist them and learn with them. After all it is their life, and just like the rest of us, they only have one!

Learn more about this author, Laura Byrnes.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.