I have a 12 year old that wants desperately to enter the city pageant but I am fearful because even though she is a beautiful girl I wonder what would happen to her emotionally if she doesnt win. I know she is at an age where she is easily influenced by what others say and do. I tried it when I was a teen and what I remember most was how much the other girls teased me about how "plain" my outfits were. My family really didnt have much money so I got my dresses from 2nd hand stores and yard sales. I can afford to get her whatever she wants as far as dresses but girls can still be mean. I just dont know if this will help her feel more confident or if it will crush her.
She is very confident in public. She sings in church and I kinda get the impression that part of the reason she wants to do it is so people can hear her sing.

Well I would say it’s a good sign that she wants to do it. I’m sure some moms force their daughters into it from an early age. It really depends on her personality. She might be strong willed enough to ignore any criticism and really believe in herself. Maybe she is more sensitive but at the end of the day while I’m sure you want to protect her daughter I think you should encourage her to pursue her passions and support her as a growing individual making her own choices with your guidance. If you just take it day by day you can assess whether it’s becoming too much for her or not and if she knows you’re there for her she will be more likely to tell you too if it’s getting too much also. Hope this helps.