Becoming an actor or actress is a dream of many children, and it may be something you want to encourage. However, before you start taking your child to auditions, there are several things you need to consider. Here is a list of 10 things to think about before getting your child into acting.
- Consider your child’s personality.
Even if your child wants to become an actor, his or her personality may not fit the role. Some children have a difficult time following directions and staying on task. These tendencies do not make for a good actor. Attempting acting will only stress out all of those involved. A child who is destined to become a good actor can follow directions and remain positive and focused. Above all, your child shouldn’t be shy of audiences or cameras. - Expect it to take a lot of time.
It takes time for a child to become mentally prepared for a talent agent and auditions. It’s important not to rush your child into anything he or she isn’t comfortable doing. An acting coach will be able to tell you when your child is prepared to move to the next stage in his or her acting career, so invest in a good coach. Another consideration is how much time you'll be able to spend taking your child to auditions and being present on set if he or she gets a role—in most cases, a parent or guardian must be present at all times. - Become familiar with SAG-AFTRA.
The Screen Actors Guild-American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG-AFTRA) is a labor union for those who are involved in film, television, or radio, including background performers. SAG-AFTRA has more than 160,000 members. While your child may only be interested in acting, this organization is an invaluable resource for anyone interested in working in the entertainment industry. - Enrolled him or her in acting classes.
It’s never too early to enroll your children in acting classes. There, they will learn skills that will carry through the rest of their lives. Don’t pick just any class that pops up in your area—choose a reputable one. Consider meeting the teacher and asking about his or her credentials. - Offer positive support above all.
No experience is a total failure. The best thing parents can do for their child is provide positive support when he or she deserves it. You don’t have to give huge rewards every time your child has an audition, but you need to be there for him or her at every twist and turn. Your child will need you for moral support. - Get professional headshots.
Good headshots open the door to acting jobs, but they can be expensive. It’s important to have a well-lit, 8x10, professional photograph of your child to show potential talent agents. The extra expense will be worth it. Babies and toddlers grow fast, so get current photos. Avoid talent agents who wish to send your child to their own photographers, as their insistence could indicate a scam. - Expect your child to need acting experience.
One of the top things required for any acting job is experience. It’s the age-old problem of how can you get experience if you need experience to get a gig? Your child can easily get experience in local plays, student films, and other such small projects to get experience. The experience doesn’t have to come from Broadway. - Consider what your child wants.
If your child gets into acting then decides he or she doesn’t want to do it anymore, don’t force the issue. Children may not be prepared for the amount of work acting requires. Under no circumstances should you force your child to pursue acting against his or her will. - Start with modeling.
It isn’t uncommon for actors to start their careers through modeling. There are several models who have turned into actors, such as Mark Wahlberg, Jamie Dornan, Rebecca Romjin, Channing Tatum, Sharon Stone, and Elizabeth Hurley. - Remember, auditions are just auditions.
Auditions are tough to get in the first place, but it’s even more difficult to score a job. It takes a good talent agent, some acting skill, and a fantastic resume to get through the door. While every audition your child receives is a win, don’t automatically assume he or she has a job at that point.
