If the question is whether or not your child needs to take an acting class, the answer is most undoubtably yes. 

"Would you send your child into a football game with the ball and say..... just run???" asked member high-rated acting coach, Trisha Simmons of LAKidsAct. "I would not dream of entering a field and spending the time, energy and money it takes to be successful, to pursue something I knew nothing about."

Even the best of actors and Hollywood stars continue to take classes on a regular basis.  Taking classes or receiving coaching allows an actor to stay in shape, just as an athlete trains regularly.  In fact, taking classes is part of the job and not merely just a means to getting a job. 

What age is a good age to start with classes?

Even young children can begin taking classes designed to fit their needs.  A good age to start acting classes is probably about the same time that your child is ready for school.  If he or she is comfortable being apart from your for short periods of time and can take instruction from another adult, he/she can probably begin to take classes.

"A good time to start training is when your child can read, focus and memorize," notes Trisha Simmons. 

You, of course, don't want to overwhelm your child or push them to unreasonable limits, but there are classes designed for little ones to teach memory skills, help them interact with others and take direction, and play games that will help them increase their creativity.


What types of classes should I take?

Children In Film recommends starting with a class in an area in which your child is fairly interested or skilled.  For example, if your child is good at performing monologues and wants to increase this skill, a monologue or scene study class would be good.  Boost confidence in areas that your child excels and then work on areas in which he or she needs improvement.

"If a child has an agent or manager or simply knows they want to take acting more seriously, they need to take classes that give them the tools with which to audition, prepare cold readings, and approach a script and scene study," suggests acting coach, Loren E. Chadima of the Youth Acting Program.

"Then [the actor will want to] move into some of the 'business side' of the Industry: camera technique, cold readings, style & tone," explained Simmons. "And once they are doing parts, there are more in depth courses."

Where can I find reputable classes?

"Anybody can create an acting class for kids," warns Chadima.  "So a parent has to listen to their intuition to know if the school and the teacher feel trustworthy and safe for their child.  Is it a class where your child is encouraged and empowered to grow and explore?  Reputable acting teachers should have an education in acting themselves as well as some industry credits."
  
Children In Film offers a way for our members to find classes, nationwide.  Plus, you can read the ratings and recommendations from parents and other pros who have worked with the acting coach.  Simply search acting classes and coaches in our Member Directory.