As a parent or guardian you may believe that your child is beautiful and perfect for modelling; but surely if this was the case 80% of the child population would be modelling? It is interesting to see what separates children who can model to those who cannot.

Firstly, it is important that your child is photogenic; a happy smiley child is always something that a campaign is looking for. If your child has clear and soft looking skin, or big bright eyes always works as a positive. However, if your child is quirky with lots of character; they may also be perfect for bringing sparkle to a promotion.

However, it is not all about the looks; your child’s temperament is equal if not more important. Within the industry, your child will be surrounded by strangers: different photographers, stylists and casting directors; therefore your child must be comfortable with socialising with many different people.

Of course, you child will have to be able to co-operate with the people around otherwise photographers will find that they will be wasting time getting your child to co-operate for the campaign. Similarly with older children, bad manners and tantrums will also not be tolerated; so be sure that your child has the appropriate manner to work within the industry.

Roughly, the rate for children within in the industry is £20 - £50 an hour; the rate works on a scale for the age of the child and the type of work that they are doing. However, it is important to remember that agencies will take around 25% of the fee. So it is crucial before signing any contract on behalf of your child, you read through it thoroughly and check every last detail.

The modeling fees are of course paid in your child’s name; however if you are a modeling parent or guardian participating in the campaign; you will also be paid a separate amount for your work. Some jobs will also offer a chaperon and expenses sum for your trouble, however not all do so be sure to check.

Because there is no promise of work within the industry, a regular income is also not assured; however your child can make anything up to £4000 a year, which will be great to save towards their future.

Within the industry there are so many different areas and of course there is always room for expansion; so with that in mind here are a few work areas that your child maybe offered to work in:

Magazines – for example, a parenting magazine
TV Adverts- advertising baby food is an example
In Store Posters also known as, point of sale
Promotional work for child products – including games and toys
Charities
Catalogues
And Fashion Shows.

Negative thinking about body image is extremely common amongst people, especially women and models; more importantly is the effect that it is having on children and those that are entering the industry.

And slowly as the media is pressuring their idealistic views on how people should look, it is having a major impact on our children and the way that they see themselves. So, we aim to tackle improving body confidence and image amongst children.

As a child, you are influenced by everything around you: more especially your parents or guardians. Therefore, your outlook on these issues also rubs off onto your children, leaving you responsible to encourage a healthy body image.

Negative thoughts about body image can lead to low self-esteem, anxiety, depression and eating disorders. The way your children treat there body now is crucial to how the body will behave in later life.

With you being the most influential character in your child’s habits, you need to start it out right:  Firstly with food.

Including plenty of fresh fruit and vegetables in their diet will not only help them to keep a balanced and healthy diet; but it will also keep this in the habit for life. Avoiding sugary diets and takeouts will also encourage your child to make their own food when they grow up, instead of relying in fast food which is high in salt, sugar and fat.

Teach your child to accept body shapes, again as your children look up to you; it is imperative you remain confident about your shape and others. By not complaining about the body parts you dislike, you will encourage your child to love there shape. Also avoid commenting on other people’s shapes, children will pick this up and follow in the same direction.

Remember not to over emphasise on appearance, there are many other important aspects of a person including personality, characteristics and skills. Friendly teasing and nicknaming are also not advised as your child is growing up, this may lead your child to have a negative thought about there weight.

Also encourage physical activity, not as a means weight management but instead for enjoyment and health. Simple family activity’s such as walking or playing family games will enable your child to keep fit out of enjoyment not because of negativity towards their body image.

Team sports and clubs are also a great way to introduce exercise into your child’s life; they will learn to socialise and meet new friends whilst keeping themselves healthy. These clubs will not only bring out qualities in your child but also help them feel passionate about the sport, helping them to still use it in later life.

Allow your child to develop their own opinion and encourage their thoughts; a feel of identity and worth are vital for a positive self esteem. If you persuade individuality, your child will also gain confidence helping them cope with life’s challenges.

Also, talking to your child’s school will help you maintain a positive environment; discuss anti-bullying campaigns and how they promote healthy eating and lifestyles. Then, if you child appears to be in a group following bad eating habits and lifestyles you can work with the school to benefit your child.