Kids as monks and nuns

It is carnival time, and not a year goes by without someone dressing as a monk or nun or bishop on Mardi Gras. The result is usually not particularly edifying. When kids do it, however, the result is endearing and often reflects more respect for the religious state. Above, we have a Trinitarian missionary on the left and a lovely "Little Thérèse" of Lisieux on the right, even carrying her flowers. Her rosary almost reaches to the ground!
Such juvenile practices are not to be underestimated in their cultural influence. Many saints "played" saying mass as children (Peter Canisius), and missionary magazines for kids would often show children in the religious roles that they aspired to. Robert A. Orsi published about this in 2004: "Children [in the USA] were encouraged to play mass at home using (if they could afford it) make-believe mass kits sold by Catholic retailers or else household objects (if they could not.) Candy Necco wafers were popular Communion hosts among children all over the country." (94)