Are you feeling overwhelmed about doing your child’s makeup for their upcoming dance concert? Don’t worry, I’ve got you! I’m sharing my 6 simple yet effective ways to make your child’s concert makeup experience a breeze. From choosing the right products to applying them like a pro, we’ve got everything you need to know. Let’s get started!

1. Set yourself up for Success

We all know that kids have a knack for making everything just a little more… challenging. But when it comes to applying their stage makeup, the last thing you want is a race against the clock. Leave plenty of time for impromptu toilet breaks, drinks of water and all the little things they simply MUST do all while you’re trying to do their hair and makeup. Create a ‘makeup station’ where everything you need is within arm’s reach. This way you’re prepared, and YOU don’t need to go rifling through drawers to find that missing eyeshadow brush or makeup sponge. Print out our handy Makeup Template, you can fill in all the details: brushes, makeup, shadows etc. and use it as your list to make sure you’re all organised.

2. Get used to it

It is so important for you (and your child) to get comfortable doing makeup. Makeup on yourself is easy(ish) but putting makeup on someone else, especially a wiggly little one, can be a whole new ball game. It’s even harder if your child isn’t used to having a mascara wand millimetres from touching their eyeballs! To save yourself the stress of fixing up smudged mascara or wonky lipstick, set aside a couple of minutes in the weeks leading up to the performance to practise.

3. Lay em’ down

Now, we all know that sitting still can be a challenge, especially for young ones. That’s where my “Sleeping Beauty” trick comes in handy. I ask my little star to lie down on a cozy blanket with a comfy pillow, and they pretend they’re catching some beauty sleep while I work my makeup magic. Laying down means they don’t have to sit straight upright, and it reduces fidgeting and stress for them (and you) during makeup application.

BONUS TIP: Choose long-wear makeup for sensitive skin – preferably fragrance-free. Always test on your child BEFORE the concert to check for adverse reactions. Waterproof and smudge-proof lipstick IS A MUST!

4. Talk them through it

Kids love knowing what’s going on, and explaining each step before it happens can make them feel more at ease. I try to explain what I’m doing, what I’m using and how it might feel and why I do it. I like to narrate the process, saying things like, “I’m going to rub this into your face. It’s called foundation and it might feel a little cold”, “I need you to close your eyes and try not to open them until I say”, “I’m going to paint some pretty colours on your eyelids with this fluffy brush. It’s going to look so nice but I really need you to be super still. I’m going to paint lightly so try to relax and try not to squint.”

5. Think small

Kids are just smaller versions of adults. Therefore, they need smaller versions of the things adults use. I prefer to use smaller makeup brushes than I would myself, especially when doing detailed work with eyeshadows. The bigger the brush, the more chance to create a big mess! Try to keep things pint size – like your little super-star.
BONUS TIP: when it comes to fake eyelashes (for older kids), look for eyelashes that are ¾ length or half length. This will save you the hassle of cutting them. This tip is particularly important for magnetic lashes, as you’ll want to keep every single magnet in place to ensure a secure hold.

6. Ready, Set, Showtime!

Start with a clean face and body. I always make sure that my children have taken a shower so that they are refreshed and clean; they shouldn’t be sweaty or dirty. Additionally, I choose loose-fitting clothing for them. My daughters wear tie-up or elastic dresses which are easy to wriggle out of and don’t have to be pulled over their heads. For boys, baggy shirts and shorts are a good option. The clothing should be such that it won’t interfere with the makeup or hairstyle when they change into their costumes.

Preparing your child for their dance concert can be a daunting task. Whether setting up a makeup station, getting comfortable with makeup application, or using the “Sleeping Beauty” trick, I hope these tips will help make the experience more enjoyable for both you and your child. I hope my guidance helps you conquer stage makeup and helps your child shine even more brightly on stage! Chookas!