You may have heard the term before.  In fact, you may have even been called one.  "Momager" - a mother who navigates not only motherhood, but also the role of an industry professional.  And, okay Dads, we'll coin 'Dadager' right now because we know you're out there too!

Either way, the term 'Momager' describes those of you who work as your child's manager, but it has also been used outside of the industry.

In her book "The Momager Guide," Christine Martinello teaches mothers how to juggle their many roles - both personal and professional - in a loving and efficient way. 

In this context, the term Momager is therefore empowering and inspirational. 

But when it comes to your child's acting career, when is it smart to become your child's manager and when could it possibly be hurting his/her career?

Here are some things to consider:

Do you know the roles of a manager? a manager is engaged in the occupation of advising and couseling actors, but they cannot, by law, seek employment engagements.  Good managers do, but it is in conjunction with a licensed agent. 

What are your intentions?  Are you your child's manager because you believe you can take on this role effectively, or is it ego-driven?  Also, Iif you're considering being your child's manager because you feel it will save you money, or earn you money, you may be misled. Do you know the ins and outs of being a manager and what it requires from you?   Consider this: would you manage another child's career?

Does your child have an agent? At this stage in your child's career, one of the main reasons for having a manager is so that you may have the opportunity to be connected with agents throughout the industry.   A manager's role is to introduce your child to agents so that he or she can secure this type of representation.  Are you connected to the industry in a manner that will lead to these types of interactions?

Are you connected?  Another role that a manager plays is to guide their clients career and help them make decisions on their path to success.  If your child is already successfully represented by an agent, becoming a 'momager' may be appropriate provided you are keeping abreast of industry standards, trends, laws and culture.  If you're truly studying these aspects of the industry, you will be prepared to further assist your child in his career path.

In the end, a manager is one who believes in their client and fights for them when others will not.  They have a broad range of experiences that will help them in assisting and furthering their clients careers.  As a parent, the former is likely true; you are your child's best advocate.  Simply make sure you assess your own skills and industry relationships before you decide to officially become a 'momager' or 'dadager.'  Also be aware of your own emotions and reactions because they can have a profound effect on your child's career.