What makes a good den parent/mom/dad?
A good den parent is a person who can handle being in a pressure situation, and who will not fall apart if someone yells or gets angry. Someone who can "be there" for the costumers and make sure that all the contestants in their den are taken care of at all times.

If you want the ability to wander around the masquerade green room as well as help out, do not volunteer to be a den parent. Many tasks are needed to be done in the masquerade green room, so please volunteer for one of those other tasks.

A really good den parent:

• Sees to contestant's comfort by getting them water or any snack foods available as needed.

• Knows where the nearest restroom is, and can direct contestants easily to it.

• Helps with the last minute repairs that may come up. This may include safety pinning something, taking a few quick stitches, or using glue or tape to help resolve any problems.

• Helps contestants get into their costume if contestants need a few last minute pieces put on.

• Talks with the costumers who need talking to, and leaves the ones who want to be left alone alone. For those that need talking, this can mean:
  • Calming down someone who needs calming down.

  • Talking up someone who needs talking up.

  • Encouraging the novice costumer who sees a master-level costumer doing the same costume and getting the novice to focus on their presentation.

  • Encouraging all costumers when needed.

  • Helping a costumer get "into character" if needed.

• Takes all their charges to the Polaroid photo area, workmanship judging if they want it, and check in if they have not already checked in.

• If enough time is available and setup allows it, walks contestants through the route to the stage, fan photo area, and back to the green room.

• Before contestants go on stage, makes sure that contestants:
  • Don't have convention badges on their costume (unless part of the costume).

  • Badges are in a secure place while contestants are competing.

  • Have all their props/costuming items.

  • Holds glasses for contestants while contestants are on stage if needed.

• After contestants get off stage:
  • Hands their glasses back to them.

  • Leads them to fan photo area.

  • Leads them to pro photo area if needed.

  • Leads them back to the green room.

• After judging happens, helps gather up the contestants for any awards presented.

• Basks in the enjoyment of helping to put on a really good show.

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