So Your Child Wants to Model or Act? Here’s What You Need to Know!
So Your Child Wants to Model or Act? Here’s What You Need to Know!
From Sarah, Kids Agent at Forward The Agency
At Forward The Agency, one of the most common questions I get from parents is: “How do I get my child started in modeling or acting?” Whether your child is a bubbly toddler, a shy but curious seven-year-old, or a confident teen, there’s a lot to know — and even more to get excited about.
I created this guide with the help of all the years of knowledge from our Owner Shanon Bell, because the more you know, the better chance your child has to succeed. Knowledge builds confidence, sets realistic expectations, and helps families feel equipped and empowered. If you’re reading this, you’re already on the right path.
Who We Are
Founded in 2015, Forward The Agency is a SAG-franchised, full-service talent agency representing talent across the U.S. in print, commercials, and TV/film. While our office is based in Atlanta, our talent can be seen on major campaigns and national screens.
Our mission is simple: we transform potential into success. From the first photo to the final booking, we guide each family through the process with professionalism and heart.
What We Look For
We’re often asked, “What kind of kids do you take?” While every child is unique and beautiful, we’re generally looking for:
A strong, age-appropriate looking
A fun, engaging personality
That little something extra we call the “WOW” factor
More importantly, we’re looking for kids who can:
Take direction well
Separate from a parent or guardian when needed, even as a baby.
Make eye contact and show confidence in front of the camera
This doesn’t mean they have to be extroverts or performers from day one, but we do need to see potential and openness.
The First Step: Submitting Your Child
When you’re ready to submit, visit:
We ask for:
Current photos (smartphone are fine to start)
A short personality video (for kids under 2, just capture a sweet smile)
Photo Guidelines:
Use natural lighting
No filters or Instagram edits
No hats, large bows, sunglasses, or distractions
Only the child in the frame — no group or sibling shots
Smiling photos preferred!
Nothing distracting in the background
We want to see your child’s natural joy and expressions. Keep it simple and authentic.
Getting Started in the Industry: What Parents Should Know
Once your child is signed, you’ll receive a welcome packet full of helpful tips. Here’s a condensed version of what’s most important:
1. Georgia Department of Labor Registration (For Kids 18 & Under)
Before your child can work in the state of Georgia, they must be registered with the Georgia Department of Labor. It’s fast, free, and required.
2. Talent Payments & Taxes
For kids 4 and under, jobs are typically print work and paid directly (no taxes taken out).
For bigger projects (commercials, TV/film), payment goes through a payroll service, which may deduct taxes depending on your setup.
Checks are written in your child’s name. Please make sure you have a checking account in your child's name to be able to deposit the checks without headache.
Payment timelines can be 40–60 days after the job is completed.
3. Understanding the Booking Process
In this industry, words like “availability check” “hold” “first refusal” and “booking” have specific meanings. Here’s what they mean:
Availability Check: A casting director likes your child and wants to check their schedule.
Hold: The client wants your child to tentatively reserve the shoot dates.
First Refusal: They’re strongly considering your child but haven’t made a final decision yet.
Booked: Congrats — your child got the job! We’ll confirm all details and get everything in writing.
Please remember: None of these are guaranteed jobs until it’s officially booked.
4. The Role of the Baby Wrangler
For kids under 4, many shoots include a professional baby wrangler. These amazing pros know how to make babies and toddlers laugh, smile, and stay calm on set. If your child struggles with strangers, let us know — this helps us prep everyone for a smooth experience.
5. The Importance of Photos and Stats
Your child’s professional photos are the single most important tool we have to get them booked. We also rely on accurate measurements and sizing to match your child with the right job. We do not make any money as an agency until out talent books.
That means:
You must take at minimum yearly professional photoshoot of your child
Keep stats updated every 2 months- as the child grows
Ensure clothing sizes, height, and shoe size are correct
If these details are outdated, we can’t confidently submit your child for jobs — and they might be skipped over.
6. Self-Taping & Auditions
In today’s industry, self-taping is how most auditions happen. A great self-tape should have:
Good lighting
Clear sound
A clean, neutral background
The correct slate and file name
We recommend parents learn basic video editing (like using iMovie or videomerger) and invest in a simple lighting kit and tripod.
Kids also need to practice analyzing scripts, understanding their characters, and bringing real emotion. We offer workshops and resources to help them grow in this area.
7. Going to Castings and Bookings
You won’t get paid to audition, but being asked to attend a casting is a win in itself. It means the client is interested.
Tips:
Bring snacks, water, and a change of clothes
Keep nap times in mind for little ones
Dress in age-appropriate, simple clothing
Be on time and follow the instructions on the call sheet
If your child is booked, it’s a commitment. Backing out can affect your standing with the agency.
8. Understanding the Age Gap (18 Months – 3 Years)
There’s a natural lull in work for toddlers in this age range. They’re growing fast, sometimes unpredictable on set, and not quite old enough for certain jobs. Be patient — more opportunities open up again after age 3!
9. Communication & Professionalism
We value communication and professionalism above all. That means:
Responding to emails in a timely manner
Meeting deadlines for self-tapes and ssubmissions
Following instructions closely
Respecting our team’s time, efforts and knowledge
We’re here to help your child succeed, and we work hard behind the scenes to give them the best possible opportunities.
10. What Makes Forward Different
We don’t just submit talent — we build relationships with casting directors, photographers, and clients. Many of the jobs we receive are exclusive to our agency or direct from brands, and we’re proud to be a trusted agency for talent across the Southeast and beyond.
Because of that, we are selective in who we represent. We’re not looking for perfect — we’re looking for real kids with great energy and supportive families.
Ready to Submit? Start Here:
Submit Your Child to Forward The Agency
We’re excited to see what your child brings to the table, and we hope this guide gives you a clear look into how the Forward works. It’s not always easy, but it can be incredibly rewarding — for both kids and parents — when you approach it with the right mindset.
