Two years ago, I decided to get my newborn daughter in to modeling and acting. I researched the internet for articles and websites. Previously, in my younger years, I did take expensive modeling classes and did a hair and runway show. I also played piano for many years. In addition, I recently did some background work in TV and movies. So, I did have some knowledge about modeling and showbiz before getting started. I knew that I had to research very carefully and be wary of scams and some shady characters. Also, the competition for children is very high. Only one in 40 will get an audition. Your child may land 1 job out of every 10 auditions.

Shortly after starting my research, I sent five letters out to local agents. I was able to accomplish my goals by getting my daughter, Sara, an agent. Through Sara’s agent, she was able to do a Gerber Baby photo shoot. She was chosen out of 400 babies for this photo shoot. She also played a Chinese orphan in an upcoming episode of “It’s a Miracle.” In addition, she did some modeling for a store on the internet that sold children’s clothing.

Since I didn’t want to spend any money in the beginning to get Sara or myself modeling and acting jobs, I started my own free website to promote actors, models, singers, musicians, and bands. I called it “Let Us Entertain You." This website was recently taken down due to lack of time to keep it going. I was able to help many parents get their children started in showbiz without getting ripped off. One of the boys I promoted ended up on Jenny Jones talent show and sang at Universal Studios, another little girl I promoted has been in three movies in Canada, and a few more children have done some modeling work. I’ve been thanked many times over for saving parents from spending money unnecessarily or signing a contract that would prove to be unrewarding or restricting. I really enjoy helping the parents out by answering questions and guiding them in the right direction. I’ve written some guidelines here to help parents out.

DON'T GIVE UP: I sent her pictures to four other agents before the fifth one took her in. After that agent accepted her, I never dreamed she would get a Gerber baby photo and the acting job on the "It's a Miracle" TV show. If you look at TV, movies, and magazines, you will see all types of children. Even children with disabilities are needed for entertainment projects. I've even seen an agent's website for amputees. I've even heard of some stars we see today being rejected at first. Just because one agent or producer doesn't jump for your child doesn't mean the next one won't. Remember not to be a pushy parent either. If you push your children onto agents and producers, they will push you back. Give the agent or producer what they want (i.e., picture, resume, demo tape) and let them get back with you. Don't call the agent or producer to ask if they liked your child. They are too busy to answer every parent. They will get in touch with you if they are interested.

DON'T WASTE MONEY UNNECESSARILY: When trying to get an agent for modeling, just send a couple of snapshots. You don't need to spend $300 or more to get pictures to send to agents. Agents would rather see a snapshot of the children being themselves. If your child gets accepted into an agency, then you can think about having some "comp cards" done professionally. I still make Sara's comp cards using my color printer and nice Kodak paper. I type on her name, nationality, age, weight, height, hair color, eye color, and clothing size. If an agency wants 300 comp cards made up front, then walk away. I only send eight new cards every three months. There are not that many jobs for young children to need that many comp cards up front. Children's looks change so often, you usually need to update them frequently.

Don't waste money on expensive modeling classes. They are not necessary at the beginning of a young career. Some agents require you pay up front fees for photos to go in books that go to clients. I have heard that these books can sit on the client's desk or even get thrown away. Why waste money on this? Agents will try to get you to give them money for all sorts of things and act like if you don't do it, then your missing out. I always believe that if they need money up front, then it is usually a scam. Agents should only make money when your child makes money. I can agree that you need to provide "comp cards." If the agent wants to promote your child, then let them promote. You shouldn't have to pay for their advertising. You can search the internet for websites that will promote your children for free.

Once your child gets into modeling, acting or singing, and you can see that they really enjoy it and might make a career out of it, then spend money on acting, singing or modeling classes. How many times have you bought something for your child like ice skates, roller skates, or other equipment only to find out that your child doesn't like doing the sport. It is the same for showbiz.

THINGS TO WATCH OUT FOR: After starting my website for children to model, sing, and act, I got all kinds of scams coming in. One website promises monthly income. After the parent pays a retainer fee, the parent never sees anything back. Even if they promise money or jobs in the future, don't give any money to the agent up front. If they want to charge you $25 for a snapshot to be put into their client books, then that’s not bad. I wouldn’t spend more than that though.

I've also seen websites promising to get your music heard if you pay them money to promote you. Why not just wait till the big record labels have a contest or open call to send in your demo. Find out who the best managers are and who has helped current stars, and send your demo to them. Anyone can say they will help you if you give them upfront money. I've seen promises broken many times for up and rising stars. Don't give anyone anything accept for a promotional package.

If someone approaches you and your child in a mall, never go with him or her anywhere for pictures. They could say they want you to come back to their apartment or a park to take some pictures. Don't go. You don't know who these people are. I wouldn't agree to any photographs unless the person has a legitimate studio. You might get an offer for a "TFP shoot" which means your child will model for free and the photographer will give you some pictures in return. Why not just take your own pictures with your camera.

Always have any replies to e-mails or phone calls come through you. Never let your child handle it. I've had problems with people coming in and asking for kids for nude modeling. Don't let your child get involved with these people. If your child is in a chat room and gets approached by someone, tell your child to have them contact you if they are interested in having them model, act, or sing.

WAYS TO GET YOUR CHILD NOTICED:

• Get your child on websites that offer free portfolios (such as here on KidKountry.com) Your child will be put into their database for agents, producers, directors, and casting directors so that the kids can be searched by characteristics these people need for their projects.
• Get your child registered to do extra work in TV, movies, or commercials. Casting directors are always looking for extra people to be in the background. Usually you fill out a registration card and attach a snapshot of your child. Most casting agencies will have a hotline number you need to check to see if their are any upcoming jobs your child could do.
• Look for online photo contests to enter your child in. Visit websites for parenting because sometimes they have talent and photo contests. I wouldn’t pay any more than a $1 for a photo contest myself.
• Ask a local bridal shop if your child can be a model in their next show. Most bridal shops will participate in big bridal shows.
• Enter your child in a local talent or beauty pageant. Don't spend more than $50 in fees for a beginner. It's just not worth it.
• If your child wants to be an actor or singer, sign them up with the local community theatre for classes or have them audition for parts in plays or musicals.
• Check your newspaper for local productions that need talented children. Maybe your local community is having a county or state fair and needs performers.
• Have your child perform for family members. Word of mouth can get your child noticed. Maybe a family member is a friend with someone who knows someone in showbiz.
• Network with other parents with talented children. This includes bulletin boards or chatrooms for modeling, music, or other fields in the entertainment business.

DOs AND DON'Ts ONCE YOUR CHILD GETS THEIR FOOT IN THE DOOR:

• If your child gets a job modeling, singing or acting on location with a known celebrity, do not rush up and ask for autographs or act like a jumping bean. Think of how you would feel if you were at work and people were bothering you.
• While on a job, don't bother the director, producer, photographer, or other crewmembers. Let them tell your child what to do and when. Parents should sit quietly in the background. If they ask you to help out, then go ahead. People in showbiz can be rude at times, so try not to let it bother you. They are very busy and time is money.
• If your child's career starts to really take off, don't be afraid to get a manager. A good manager can have all the right connections and will deal with the scum that comes forward. Get a manager that has been in business for years and has references you can contact.
• If your child makes it big, don't brag too much to family and friends. Sometimes family and friends can be the worst. They get jealous and then don't want to associate with you anymore because your child is "making it" and their child isn't. It's normal to mention that your child did this and that, but don't go on and on about it. Once your child gets into showbiz, you will meet other parents of showbiz kids. Those are the friends you can discuss the business with. You can brag all you want to them because they need someone to brag to also. They understand what you are going through. It is exciting when your child gets a big job. Family and friends might assume you are pushing or forcing your child into showbiz. They may ridicule you and make you feel bad about it. Parents of showbiz kids will congratulate your child and make you feel like you've really accomplished something. Of course I'm not saying all family and friends are like this. My family has been very supportive. Just be conscious of it.
• Don't spoil your child with anything they want. Put the money they earn in a trust account and give them a small allowance once a week. Per the Coogan law, you are required to put a percentage of money away for your child. Make them wait for Christmas or birthdays before purchasing large items for them. Try to keep your child down to earth and not let it go to their heads.

I'LL REPEAT: DON'T GIVE UP:
Breaking into show business is more like a marathon than a sprint. Waiting for someone to come knock on your door is not very realistic. Just keep trying and trying. Never give up on your dreams! Good luck!