Protecting the Kid Behind the Performer

As a talent manager for three decades, I've watched countless young performers grow up. Some grew up in this business. Others grew up alongside it. Over the past few months, our industry has lost several former child performers, and many people who grew up on sets have spoken openly about what they needed as kids and didn't get. Those conversations are hard, and they matter. They also point to something every parent can act on today.

A booking lasts a few weeks. Your child is your child for life. Obviously the most important thing is to protect the person, not just the career. Below are some tips on how to protect our young performers.

6 Ways to Protect the Kid Behind the Performer:

1. Give Them a Real "No"

Your child should know they can turn down an audition, take a break, or step away entirely, without guilt and without losing your approval. A "no" that's never honored isn't really a choice.

2. Check In with your Young Performer About their Life, Not Just their Careers

Ask your young performer about their school, friends, and what they're excited about in life. If every conversation is about auditions and callbacks, a young performer will learn that their value depends on booking.

3. Remember to Be the Parent First

Some parents also serve as their child's manager. It can work, but it blurs the lines. When the person pushing the career is also the person who comforts after a rejection, kids can lose their safe place. Let professionals handle the business so you can be home base.

4. Protect Their Money

In California, at least 15% of a minor's earnings must go into a Coogan account, a blocked trust the child can access as an adult. Open the account early and confirm the deposits are being made. Treat the rest of the earnings as your child's money too. A child should never feel responsible for the family's finances and you should never be using their money to support your lifestyle. You can pay yourself back for expenses you have made but you want to make sure you keep good records of them. The last thing you'll want is for your child to grow up and at 18 turn to you and say, "Hey, love to see what money I've made while I worked all my career," and for there to be nothing in that bank account.

5. Keep a Full Life Outside the Business

Sports, friends, family dinners, and time off all matter. When a setback comes (and in this business, it will), a young performer with a full life has other places where their identity lives.

6. Know the Signs and Get Support Early

Watch for changes in their sleep, mood, or appetite, pulling away from friends, or audition nerves that don't fade. Take them seriously. Talking with a counselor is a sign of strength, not a sign that something is wrong.

My Final Thought:

The real measure of success in this industry isn't a credit list. It's a healthy, confident adult who looks back on their childhood with pride. Minor Performer Alliance offers mental health support, mentorship, and scholarships for young performers and their families. Reach out; that's what it's there for. If your child is ever in crisis, call or text 988 to reach the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.

Nelson Paredez-Parks

Kids on TV

Proudly Partnering with Minor Performer Alliance