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Most mothers look at their new babies and think that they are the most perfect creatures on the face of the Earth. Even for a fleeting moment, we think that our babies are cute enough to be on television or in the movies. I personally thought my daughter was cute enough to be the new Gerber baby. I don't want to sound biased, but she was one of the best looking babies I've ever seen. At four years old, she's grown into a beautiful pre-schooler. Not only is she attractive, but her personality shines.

A few months ago, my feeling about my child's physical appearance and personality was confirmed when we happened to be somewhere, and an agency was conducting auditions for children. My daughter was not involved, but one of the people at the agency stopped her and my husband on the walkway because she did something that drew their attention. My husband, being the pushover that he is, gave the people contact information.

Unlike a lot of parents who are seeking stardom for their children, we just forgot about it and went about our daily lives. We were surprised when the agency called us back and wanted to sign her with them. We met with the owner and even signed a contract, thinking that we could always stop if she didn't like it.

We quickly learned that, even if your children have show business in their future, it takes money. The realization that food for your children is more important than fame caused us to delay the agencies plans to make our daughter the next big child star. Hollywood is filled with stories of parents making financial sacrifices in order to fulfill their dream of having star children. However, I think love for a child is providing necessities not living vicariously through them.

However, if parents feel that show business is in their children's futures, they must consider a few things. Is it your child's dream or is it your dream? If the child is not happy, are you willing to put a stop to it? As I found out, can you really afford to invest monetarily in the pursuit of a dream that may or may not happen? And, are you going to be a parent in the truest sense, being completely involved in the process and safeguarding your children from exploitation?

Parents must also look at what could happen to their children. Child stars can turn out a number of ways. There are successful examples such as Ron Howard and Jodie Foster. On the other hand, we have the current train wrecks like Lindsey and Brittney. Parents have to be willing to say when enough is enough if this is indeed in a child's future.

As far as my daughter, if she has show business in her future, there is plenty of time to find out. After all, most four years old are window dressing in most movies and television shows.

Learn more about this author, Cicely Richard.
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