I have a cousin who is 11 she has been in cheer-leading since she was 7. They don't wear outfits quite as revealing but sometimes they have a booty shake in there routine. While I don't think it is appropriate to have young girls thrusting there pelvis or dancing around half naked, I do feel that being a part of a team is a confidence booster. I have seen my cousin's confidence and social skills greatly improve over the last few years. I and her mother attribute it to cheer. She has made many friendships and stays healthy and fit as well. Cheer and dance should be done tastefully and age appropriately for sure but I don't think it's terrible to have a child involved in either sport. There are way too many positives about them. Just my 2 cents