What Makes a Child Actor Successful?
Certainly your child has what it takes to be a star; passion, drive, natural acting ability, charisma. However, it is likely that others competing for the same role, possess the same winning qualities. So what is it that sets one actor apart from another? What does it take to make a child actor successful?
Self-Confidence
Self-confidence is defined as a feeling of trust in one’s abilities, qualities, and judgment – a positive
belief that one can accomplish what he or she set out to do (not to be confused with self-esteem, which is an evaluation of one’s own worth). A person can increase their self-confidence from experiences of having mastered particular activities. Acting can boost the self-confidence of child performers if they show up to auditions, interviews, and jobs fully prepared. Parents can help their child actors confidence levels by remaining supportive and available.
Positive Attitude
It’s a given that parents want their children to have a positive attitude, but teaching them how to adopt this way of thinking might not be so easy. When a child develops a positive attitude early on, positive thinking becomes a habit that will help them thrive and succeed in all aspects of their life, especially in the sometimes-cruel world of acting. It’s important to try and encourage your child to always focus on the best possible outcome rather than the worse. Ultimately, choosing to have a positive attitude will be more beneficial and help them get through difficult or testing situations.
Resilience
Unfortunately, rejection, jealousy, self-scrutiny, obsessive thoughts, and the need to be perfect can come with the territory of acting. A young actor will have to face being told “no” – and it is how he or she responds that is important. A child performer’s first thought should not be to quit when things become challenging. He or she must keep an optimistic outlook and try another audition. And another. No one is right for every role, and there are many possible reasons why someone does or doesn’t get cast. Understanding that “it’s not personal” teaches a child actor persistence.
Positivity, confidence, and resilience are needed every step of the way on the road to stardom. By providing your child actor with lots of love and praise, you help encourage positivity. Kind words, hugs, kisses, high-fives and special treat days out every now and again are sure to keep everyone feeling upbeat and optimistic.
CGTV is a high-level TV, film, and entertainment program designed to help connect talent with some of the top agents, casting directors, and managers in Los Angeles. Learn more about the services we provide by visiting the CGTV website or calling 818-284-6689.
Sources:
https://www.psychologytoday.com/blog/in-the-trenches/201106/the-child-performer
http://www.youryoungactor.com/2011/10/23/what-do-talent-agents-look-for-in-a-child/
https://www.pexels.com/photo/snow-person-girl-winter-35632/
https://www.pexels.com/photo/adult-baby-blur-child-532389/
https://www.pexels.com/photo/attractive-boy-fashion-guy-269393/
