How to get those first few models

One way is to advertise. But to show people what you can do with them in terms of taking their portraits, you need either yourself and willing family and friends who’ll volunteer. People could also offer TFP (Time For Print) instead of cash in an attempt to find practice, references, and a way to advertise skills.

Another way is to join modeling websites like onemodelplace.com or modelmayhem.com. Although there will be costs for many there are going to be some aspiring models who wouldn’t mind having a tiny portfolio to start with even if they don’t get paid.

It’s a bit of a struggle for me since I’m a little shy. I do have more than just the two kids who will work with me and I will be working with them pretty soon. My stepsister has also offered to volunteer just to help me learn more about my camera and setting up the scene, so she’s another “model” I could work with. I’ve recently asked cousins of mine to help me out and they’ve agreed, despite our distance between each other. =)

Sounds like you might be working with some people that are underage, so be sure you're getting model releases signed by the parents too.

+1 paying the models. A lot of times you get exactly what you paid for with a free model. Not always, but usually. And if you're going to pay someone make sure your getting the person that will fit what you're trying to accomplish with your portfolio.