Pampered Pre-Teens

Jan. 1, 2006 — -- More than ever, tween girls -- youngsters between the ages of 8 and 11 -- are coveted by marketers.

They have nearly $14 billion in purchasing power and their numbers continue to grow. And their markets go way beyond dolls and clothes.

"They are going to tell mom and dad what they should be buying," said Jane Buckingham of The Intelligence Group, which specializes in youth market research. "They have preferences. They know what they want. They know what they don't like."

Tween girls are taking a lesson from the baby boomers and embracing the never-ending quest for beauty and relaxation.

At outlets of the Club Libby Lu chain, girls can get a makeover or buy custom-made bath products and cosmetics, bed sheets and clothes.

Outside Chicago, the Simon Says salon will treat customers who are not even potty-trained.

"I guess we've reinvented the wheel in a way," said salon owner Scott Knapp said. "We've just found a way where little girls can leave the house and come to a salon that's really for them."

There girls can get pedicures, highlights and facials.

"We give them a little facial massage using these wonderful products that are specifically made for kids," Knapp said.

Simon Says is not terribly expensive either -- manicures and facials cost $5 and pedicures cost $15.

"I think it's a great place to bring your children instead of a normal salon because they get treated as adults and that's what they like," said mother Kimberly Friskin. "And feel special for the day."