Does a 7 y.o. have to "shoulder" her bird for first showmanship class?

[lceh]

My 7 year old DD is very excited about her very first showmanship class at the Va. Poultry Breeders Association show next month. I am helping her practice how to hold her silkie pullet, but she's got small enough hands that "shouldering" the bird to show the head is a real challenge. We're both afraid she's going to drop the bird. Is there another acceptable way for her to hold her pullet and show the head without having to hold it in midair with one hand?

Also, does anyone know if she'll be expected to walk her bird at this age?

Thanks for the help!

 

[The Poultry Peanut]

Bump

 

[briarpatchfarms]

The showmanships I've seen every age has to hold them like that but I really don't know she can hold the bird close to her when the questions are being asked so that will help plus the bird will be in a cage till they call her up to do it!