Part I
Contributed by Nora Feldman -- Youth Arts Editor

With many kids acting classes to choose from, selecting the right one for your child can seem daunting.

Having been at one time a kids’ manager and later, a kid’s agent, parents often come to me for advice on choosing an acting class and with other questions about how Show Biz for kids works.

In regards to classes, one has to determine first whether the class is to be recreational or vocational, i.e., your kid wants to take an acting class for fun or your kid wants to be in commercials, film, TV or professional theatre - - which can also be fun, but is more involved and ultimately, more costly in both time and money.

If the acting class is to be recreational, check with your local schools and your local park and recreation centers, YMCA and camps for acting programs offered when kids are on vacation or those offered throughout the year.  Often, after-school programs have acting classes available as do some local theatre companies.  In addition, check with other parents with kids already taking acting classes for recommendations, in much the same way you would for a camp, school or a scout troupe.  Classes offered at park and recreation centers, as well as after-school programs and some little theatres can be less expensive than those offered by agents, casting directors or professional kids acting teachers and coaches.

Important:  Watch out for scams -- any acting or modeling group wanting to sign you up for a package of classes, pictures, etc. generally is very costly and unnecessary for your child or future professional kid; don’t sign any paperwork or contract, and check with the local Better Business Bureau and the local police Bunko Squad to be sure that the group you are considering has not been reported for illegal business practices.  Everyone wants the best for their kids - - “snap out of it” and get those stars out of your eyes - - paying more doesn’t get what you need as far as professional acting classes for your child goes.  More on this in a later installment!!!

Next time:  Different types of acting classes offered.