Child pageants can have negative effects on children's development. First, participating in pageants takes away from children's time to play with friends as most contests involve long hours of practice and audition for children as young as 3-6 years old. Second, children are forced to follow strict rules in pageants which prevents them from freely playing. Furthermore, parents who want their children to be famous often encourage excessive practice over allowing children to simply play as children should be able at their age. Overall, it is better for children's healthy development if parents do not force participation in pageants and instead let children freely play with friends.