Auditions can be an incredible opportunity for children, however, they can also be incredibly daunting, and this particularly depends on the personality of your child. While hugely exciting, children can feel nervous or anxious about attending an audition for a myriad of reasons including fear of failure, the pressure to perform, a lack of experience, self-consciousness, and overall high expectations. Having said that auditions can be a wonderful opportunity for personal growth and often a doorway to new thrilling avenues in life. Here are some tips from kidscasting.com on how to prepare your child for an audition including the dos and don’ts of preparing for a casting.
What happens at an audition?
The specific process of a child audition can vary depending on the production, but here are some common elements that may occur during a child audition:
Check-in:
When the child arrives at the audition location, they will usually check-in with a staff member or volunteer. They may be asked to fill out a form or provide some basic information, such as their name and age.
Warm-up:
The child may be given some time to warm up and prepare before the audition. This could involve stretching, vocal exercises, or practicing their audition piece.
Introduction:
The child will typically be introduced to the audition panel, which may include the director, casting director, and other staff members. They may be asked some basic questions about their experience or interests.
Audition piece:
The child will perform their audition piece, which may be a monologue, song, dance, or scene. They may be asked to perform from memory or to read from a script. The audition panel may provide some direction or feedback during the performance.
Callbacks:
If the child is selected for a callback, they may be asked to come back for a second audition. This could involve performing the same audition piece again or learning new material.
Notification:
The child will usually be notified of the audition results within a few days to a week after the audition. If they are selected for a role, they may be given further instructions about rehearsals, costumes, and other production details.
It’s important to note that auditions can be a nerve-wracking experience for children, especially if they are new to the process. Parents and caregivers can help by providing support and encouragement and by helping their child prepare for the audition in advance.
How to prepare your child for an audition: The do’s
Preparing a child for an audition is not just about learning a few lines of text and smiling. It is about versatile development long before the first casting. If the child is friendly, open, and easily communicates with people, he or she has many chances of success. Here’s what you can do:
- Teach the child to talk about him or herself. When the kid comes to the studio, the casting director will probably ask a few questions: “How was your day?” “How did you and your parents get here?” Casting directors at Kids Auditions in NYC say that they like when children behave freely and are not shy to start a conversation.
- Teach your child basic audition skills. Being able to smile for the camera, move confidently, etc. is usually helpful. For video casting, it is usually enough to be able to listen carefully to the tasks and behave naturally.
- Tell about the advertised product. The child will make a good impression if he or she knows about the juice, sneakers, or the constructor which is promoted.
How to prepare your child for an audition: The don’ts
It is difficult to take everything into account, but try not to make common mistakes.
- Teaching a child too much. Help the kid to learn several lines if the audition demands it. But don’t force the kid to memorize facial expressions, gestures, etc. Leave it to professionals.
- Not explaining to the child what’s going on. Audition is stressful. Explain what will happen in the studio.
- Dressing in too fancy clothes. No, it won’t help the employer remember your child. Dress the kid in neat and comfortable clothes. Do not wear new clothes or shoes. They can smear or rub and will not allow the child to relax.
Supporting your child
Our job as parents is to be our children’s best cheerleaders in life, and this also extends to auditions! With that said, here are some ways you can support your child during an audition:
Encourage and praise them
Let your child know that you believe in them and that you are proud of them for taking on the challenge of auditioning. Praise their effort, regardless of the outcome.
Practice with them
Help your child prepare for the audition by practicing their audition piece with them. Offer constructive feedback and encouragement to help them improve their performance.
Provide emotional support
Reassure your child that it’s normal to feel nervous or scared during an audition. Let them know that you will be there to support them no matter what happens.
Stay positive and relaxed
Avoid putting too much pressure on your child to succeed in the audition. Focus on the experience itself rather than the outcome.
Be patient
Audition results may take a few days or even weeks to be announced. Be patient and avoid putting pressure on your child to find out the results.
Help them prepare
As highlighted above, preparation is keyt! Make sure your child has everything they need for the audition, such as their audition piece, any required clothing or props, and directions to the audition location. Ensure they get enough sleep and eat a healthy meal before the audition.
Celebrate their efforts
Regardless of the outcome, celebrate your child’s effort and commitment to the audition process. Let them know that you are proud of them for taking on the challenge and encourage them to continue pursuing their interests and passions.
And one more important tip. Sometimes, there are long lines at auditions. Come up with activities that will entertain, but not tire the child, and be armed with plenty of snacks too.
If your child has an upcoming audition here’s wishing them the very best of luck!
