Helping your child thrive in the performing arts is both rewarding and challenging. Here are some key tips to keep the experience positive, balanced, and sustainable:

1. Prioritise joy over pressure

Encourage your child to explore, create, and enjoy performing rather than focusing solely on bookings or accolades. A genuine love for the craft will carry them further than anything else.

2. Keep a balanced schedule

Performing can be time-consuming, but school, friends, and downtime are equally important. Help your child maintain balance to avoid burnout.

3. Be their support system, not their manager.

Guide, encourage, and advocate for your child -but let industry professionals do the coaching and directing.

4. Stay informed about the industry.

Learn the basics about auditions, agents, contracts, and safety regulations so you can confidently help your child navigate opportunities.

5. Focus on learning, not just landing roles.

Classes, workshops, and small projects all help your child grow, even if they don’t lead to immediate “big breaks.”

6. Protect their well-being.

Pay attention to your child’s mental health and comfort level. Check in regularly to make sure they still want to continue and feel safe in every environment.

7. Celebrate effort as much as achievement.

Recognise the hard work, dedication, and courage it takes to audition and perform -regardless of the outcome.

8. Foster resilience.

Teach your child that rejection is normal in this industry and never a reflection of their worth or talent.

9. Build trusted relationships.

Work with reputable agents, coaches, and casting professionals. Don’t be afraid to ask questions or seek recommendations.

10. Make it fun!

At its heart, performing arts should feel creative and playful. Find ways to keep the spark alive, like family theatre nights, improvisation games, or seeing live shows together.