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Balancing Performance and Education
by Nicole Lero
For many child actors, life becomes a bit of a balancing act. Although there are laws in place that limit the numbers of hours a child actor can work, as well as laws that stipulate the numbers of hours per week a child performer must be educated, it can still be a difficult struggle from time to time.
Imagine how exciting it would be to be cast in a role for a television show, theatrical production, or a feature film. Or to have your child chosen from a pool of hundreds, if not thousands, of aspiring performers. Once the excitement died down a bit, the reality of what has to get done before the child starts working can be a bit overwhelming. Not only will many states require you to obtain one or more entertainment work permit, and then, of course, there are financial and educational arrangements to be made.
Many people find themselves confused when it comes to these issues -- this is perfectly natural, as there is a lot of room for confusion. Laws differ from state-to-state with regard to all of these issues, and keeping track of them is not always the easiest thing for parents. In the state of California, for example, the child would be required to have a studio teacher when working -- a specific type of teacher who has extra credentials that are in accordance with the laws of the state. This is also the case in Alaska, but not in any of the other fifty states. Knowledge like this is power for those struggling to make sense.
Ultimately, with the correct support system in place -- with the parents as the cornerstones of this system, the child should be able to balance work and school and free time for a normal childhood. It just takes a bit of patience and understanding and hard work on the part of those who want the children to succeed.