Before i start i would just like to say that everything said here is not meant to be offensive or cold-hearted.
To start off with right off the bat i noticed the background and the hat were similar colors. Although one is purple and one i bright pink, the topic was burst of color. Maybe if you had a black background, or if you had her outside and you did some selective desat.
Overall the camera work in this photo was good. I'm guessing that you used an on camera flash, otherwise the shadow behind your daughter wouldn't be so harsh. Other than that the depth of feild was good, and the exposure was good. I can't help but wonder though weather running this shot through neat image would help soften the light on her face.
I think what really brought this image down was the fact that it looks like a snapshot. Although in some challenges this could be a plus, in this challenge because its a members challenge you really have to respect the calliber of photographer that you are up against, they will have profesional lighting systems and off camera flahses. I try to replicate this even though i dont have fancy stuff like that.
I hope that i helped a little bit. And if you have any comments or questions PM me.
The harsh shadow behind your little model makes your shot look like a cheap instant camera flash shot. Shame because everything else about the shot should work extremely well. Even bouncing the flash off a wall or ceiling will help if thats possible.
Very fun shot. I love the expression and candid feel you were able to capture. Your DOF and composition is nice also. The only thing that detracts from this shot IMHO is the flash. It created a harsh feel to an otherwise soft, emotive photo and casts some shadows that take away from the subject. Just my humble opinion, nice shot nonetheless