Many parents and kids are drawn to modelling for its perceived glamour and earning potential. However, as a film director and producer—and as a parent of two children who have modelled and acted since they were as young as 9 months old—I can tell you that this world requires a lot of hard work and commitment from both kids and parents. If you are considering starting on this modelling or acting journey with your child, here are some key tips to consider.
Managing Disappointment
Keep in mind that there are many stages to a casting call, and sometimes you must go through several rounds before securing a job. Parents will have to often encourage their kids and work through their disappointments if they do not get selected. Keeping their spirits high and motivated to keep on trying is key. Don’t scold them or pressure them to perform, but keep the casting calls experience enjoyable by bringing card games to play together or going out to do something fun together after.
Keeping Kids Rested Throughout the Long Hours
Most times on a commercial set, kids are required to wake up in the wee hours of the morning to go to set and model 12-hours (or often more). There is a lot of waiting on a hot set in-between the shoots and hard work when the kids have to go and shoot. Kids can tire easily and get cranky throughout the shoot and may not perform well. If possible, find a quieter spot where your kids can have some quiet space to rest and recharge their energy levels. Bring back up portable hand fans to keep your child cool and their favourite sleep comfort toys to encourage short naps. If you have a baby or a young toddler, ensure you highlight to the production their specific nap times so they can plan their shoot schedule with this in mind.
Choose Healthy Snacks Over High Sugar Snacks
Bring healthy snacks to keep their energy up throughout the day at casting or while shooting. Don’t load them up with high sugar such as Milo or chocolate, which the kids then can become overly energetic and then experience a sugar low during the shoot. I let my kids pick their favourite snacks, such as cut fruits, carrot sticks with dips, yoghurt, oat bars, cheese with crackers, and occasionally healthy baked chips. Try to avoid loading them with too much junk food that you may find on sets.
Avoid Giving Gadgets
Instead of digital gadgets to keep them occupied while waiting to shoot, bring fun and engaging activities such as colouring books, reading books, card/board games or DIY activities you can do together to pass the time between shooting scenes. In my experience, gadgets can sometimes make a kid zone out and bring their energy level down before acting or modelling, while younger kids will most likely kick up a fuss if you try to remove their gadget from them before the shoot.
Comfort Items
Sometimes younger kids need comfort items such as their safety blanket or favourite soft toy for extra security. You can bring thing to help provide comfort during a set and make sure you explain to them that when it is time to shoot, they have to leave it behind.
Explaining the Process
Helping to explain to your kids the process of the shoot and what is happening, or how they are required to act/model for them to know what to expect, can help ensure your kid is comfortable and not scared to shoot their scenes. Do some practice with them beforehand to help them get comfortable with their shooting scene.
Safety First
There is a lot of heavy gear, such as heavy lights or stands, dangerous electrical wire, and expensive camera equipment on a set. Make sure you don’t let your kids run around the set and be watchful to keep an eye out for them to avoid them tripping over electric cables, for example.
Being Treated with Respect on Set
Lastly, remember that your kids are working a professional model or acting talent while being paid to do a job. They are not just mere “kids” on a set and should always be treated with respect by the production team, just as they would treat any adult actor or model.
It’s important to let your child try modelling to see if they enjoy it, but it should always be their choice. When it’s something they truly love, the experience stays enjoyable; when forced, it quickly loses its charm. Parents should constantly encourage, keep their spirits motivated, and most importantly, be patient with their kids. Remember, if you choose to go down this line with your kids, there will be long hours and hard work, but it can be an enjoyable and rewarding journey as well.
