KIDS LOVE TO show off, sometimes going on long after the household director has cried "Cut!" A neighborhood talent show gives them permission to really ham it up--and get cheered for their efforts.
The first challenge is to find a child's particular talent: Is it taming the family dog? Doing impressions of her parents? Playing the kazoo? Bear in mind that the key to a successful show is raw enthusiasm and an appreciative audience, not polished performances.
Consider anchoring the show with one big number that involves the whole cast. This way, the kids will have an excuse to get together regularly for rehearsals. Before the big night, make up programs on a home computer (kids love to see their names in print) and prepare some snacks. And just for kicks, alert the local media--yours would not be the first talent show to make a local newspaper's front page.
