To think "pretty privilege" can start really early?

DS is not photogenic at all and whilst I think he's gorgeous I don't think that's noted by others. He is quirky, confident, funny, intelligent (noted by teachers and other parents) he has lots of friends and is always surrounded by others. I don't think it's just how someone looks, but society definitely favours extroverts

I relate to this too. I know the data backs up pretty privilege but I've always enjoyed being quite anonymous and not feeling the pressure to worry about that side of things.

I think it is a thing but at that age I don't necessarily think it's about looks, it's usually the confident, funny, charismatic kids who end up being in the "popular" group

Is it "privilege" to belong to the majority? Is it privilege to confirm to the standard - what would uncle upon a less enlighten time have been referred to "normal" or the majority.

If you in a minority or an "outlier" or not in the majority is it not you ?

I rather agree with this. I'm quite ordinary looking, as are most people TBH, but I have found friends and positive relationships through being kind, pleasant company

My friend's DD is very attractive but constantly fighting off perverts leering at her in pubs. Police have sometimes been involved. I don't envy her at all

I HATE the term pretty privledge because with it comes jealousy and bias against people, people ganging up to show them ‘they’re not all that’, people feeling they can make comments, pat in the head etc. For every plus I’m sure there’s tons of minuses!!

It's not just In your head, it's very much a thing!

You're right but there is also a "plain privilege" which I myself have benefited from. I am older now, but throughout my life I have found that there is something so great in being a woman who goes under the radar. I have been free to develop my mind (educated to PhD level) and pursue a career that I love.

Unfortunately, "pretty" doesn't usually last, and when it fades the women who benefitted from it can end up really lost (apologies to all the pretties out there).

I think it starts early but I think it's more in the unconscious ways that adults treat children at this age than cliques among the children themselves. Little kids are pretty open to everyone IME. The cliques do come later of course.

Not true. I know many shy amazing looking females who are introverts and do not do gossips nor cliques

I don't have much patience for this I'm afraid. Popular 'cliques' are usually made up of more than just pretty people. They often have charisma etc and children, even young ones, are drawn to that type of person.

I also think getting wound up about beauty standards and using words like 'privilege' and 'unfair' to the point you apply it to young children is a fool's errand as it will get you nowhere. Good-looking, charismatic, funny etc people are always more likely to have the wind in their sails as they kake it through life. T'was ever thus.

Relax and live your life and don't worry so much about others.

No, IME you’re right & absolutely & can lead to lifelong confidence or otherwise…