A parent-friendly guide to on-set etiquette for kids — what to expect during filming, who to communicate with, and how to help your child behave professionally.

The Parent’s Guide to On-Set Etiquette for Kids: What Happens During Filming

Once the kid actor&rsquo;s application to a casting call for a role in a film or television production has resulted in an invitation for an audition and they successfully nail it, it will be time for the child to work on a film set. As kids will always be accompanied by their parents, it means they have to ensure the young performer is also on their best professional behavior during the process. Continue reading below to learn about the various written and unwritten rules for kids while on the film set.

<ul>
	<li>Parents need to ensure adherence to the rules. Filming sets are typically a busy environment, and even the slightest deviation can cause disruption.</li>
	<li>All inquiries have to be solved through specific personnel. Overstepping the said boundaries can be deemed, at the very least, unprofessional.</li>
	<li>The kid actor&rsquo;s well-being between the sets is the parents&#39; responsibility. While awaiting filming their scenes, the child must continue to be well-behaved.</li>
</ul>

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Learn how parents can film high-quality self-tape auditions for kids using only a smartphone—covering setup, lighting, audio, and filming tips.

How to Film High-Quality Self-Tapes for Kids Using Only a Smartphone

One of the most recent trends in auditions has been self-taping. It is a whole brand new spin on the traditional way of kid performers trying to impress casting directors with their performance talents and convince them that they are the right candidates for the job. Among the many advantages of self-tapes is that this process can be done from virtually anywhere and at any time, as long as the footage is submitted within the given time period. More good news? There is no need to invest in filming studio equipment, as the video can be shot on a simple smartphone. Learn how to do it step by step below.

<ul>
	<li>The average smartphone camera is sufficient. Parents do not have to invest in additional cameras for their kids&rsquo; self-tapes.</li>
	<li>Self-tape audio is equally important to visuals. While the microphone in the smartphone should work out fine, the filming location should be quiet.</li>
	<li>The final cut of the self-tape can be edited on the phone. Though the footage should not feature additional filters or special effects.</li>
</ul>

Discover the top child acting trends for 2026 and what casting directors are really looking for—from authenticity and confidence to preparation and professionalism.

2026 Child Acting Trends: What Casting Directors Really Want This Year

The new year means new hopes and dreams for every person. Of course, it also includes casting directors who are already starting to check their wishlist for 2026 when evaluating kid actors. Learn more about the trends that are set to define the upcoming months of the kid actor casting call results below.

<ul>
	<li>Kids are valued for who they really are. Any gimmicks for standing out are unnecessary at auditions, as casting directors wish to see the child actor&#39;s true personality.</li>
	<li>Being confident is key. Acting is a public art form and requires kids to feel comfortable while doing it.</li>
	<li>Slacking off won&rsquo;t work out. Botching the first impressions virtually defeats a child actor&rsquo;s chances of getting the acting gig.</li>
</ul>

Expert-backed tips to help shy kids feel confident and prepared during auditions—plus guidance for parents on setting expectations and building confidence.

How to Help Shy Kids Shine During Auditions: Expert Tips for Parents

Besides the various challenges that kids and their parents face when pursuing acting or modeling dreams, there is often another barrier to overcome: shyness. As it can affect their confidence levels and ability to self-express freely, parents can look for ways to help their child and even turn being shy into an advantage. Learn more below.

<ul>
	<li>Preparations will boost their confidence. While remaining in a supportive environment, being well-prepared for auditions will help you overcome anxiety.</li>
	<li>Parents must ensure grounded aspirations. Having unrealistic goals can do more damage than good for shy children.</li>
	<li>Shyness can be a pro rather than a con. The natural observatory abilities can help shy kids to better execute their performance roles.</li>
</ul>

More brands are casting real families instead of traditional models. Learn why micro-modeling is growing and how kids and parents can benefit from this trend.

Micro-Modeling for Kids: Why Brands Are Casting “Real Families” More Than Ever

As kids start to develop aspirations to become models, it means that their parents will have to be involved behind the scenes as much as they appear in front of the cameras. Yet the emerging trend lately has been casting the kid model&rsquo;s whole family for commercial projects. Learn more about it below.

<ul>
	<li>Audiences are shunning artificial images. They are looking for authentic and even imperfect people appearing in promotional materials.</li>
	<li>Real families have immediate chemistry. It streamlines the entire production process.</li>
	<li>Social media has a major influence on this. Gathering models who are strangers to each other just is not enough for Millennials and Gen Z.</li>
</ul>

A few weeks ago my son was selected to be on the cover of Matilda Magazine Cover. This week he got his first Casting Call

Thanks Kidscasting.com, Kristof was selected to be on the cover page of Matilda magazine. 

JHELLENA WAS CHOSEN AND FEATURED IN MAY EDITION OF FASHION REPUBLIC MAGAZINE. SUCH AN AMAZING EXPERIENCE FOR HER. 

I posted a casting call for a child from age 9 to 14 who could play a Chopin piece on the piano for a short film - boy or girl. I found a girl. Thanks Kids Casting

Ava had her first Casting Call with Carters. This has just opened the door to other opportunities and we could not be more excited.

Allison got a call two weeks ago, and we were definitely wary and worried it was a scam. We showed up for the photo shoot, and the lady was over the moon excited with her personality before we even finished shooting outfit number 2 or doing her bio...a video. She has a paid shoot coming up in two weeks.

I had a wonderful response for my Little Princess model call and ultimately selected two models to gift a photo shoot. In both cases, the parents were professional and prepared. KidsCasting has been a wonderful resource for me to find new talent. 

Kids casting is a great place start when you know absolutely nothing about this business. Take the classes and read the information which is provided. Do your research. Post great photos. Keep your profile current. Keep up the good work. Have fun.

male

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female

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