Simply put, children need entertainment work permits in most cases because it's required by law. Unfortunately laws are different in every state, and to be fully compliant you would need to research and follow the laws of both the minor's state of residence and any state to which the minor travels for work.  Don't worry, Children In Film can help you figure it all out.

But perhaps you are wondering what purpose a work permit serves in protecting children.  CIF has broken this explanation down for the various areas of the industry that are affected by work permits:

The Parents/Kids: In California, a work permit application form must be signed by the parent or legal guardian.  By doing so the parent states that they "have read the rules governing (child performer) employment" and "will cooperate to the best of their ability in safeguarding the educational, moral and physical interest" of the child.  This ensures that the parent understands their child's rights under the law. 

The School:  In many states, if the child is of school age, his/her permit application form will also need to be signed by the school.  This ensures that the school is aware of the child's intent to participate in entertainment industry employment and alerts the school that the child may be absent from school to do so.  It is the school's responsibility to verify the academic standing of the minor and deny the permit if the minor does not have satisfactory grades or pupil attendance. 

"If a child is working regularly and missing a lot of school, eventually you will want to check out alternatives such as Home Schooling or Independent Study Programs," suggests Trisha Noble, CIF Permit Services Director.

The Production Company: States that require children to hold current and valid work permits in turn prohibit production companies from employing children who do not hold such permits.  This prevents producers from hiring children who are not in good academic standing.

"In California, if your child is actively seeking employment in the entertainment industry your first step is to obtain a work permit," reminds Noble.  "Agents will ask you to obtain a permit immediately after signing on for representation and some casting directors won't even audition you unless you already have one.  Often times production wants you on set tomorrow, and the last thing you want is to have your child miss an opportunity because they are not prepared."

The State:  In the end, states that require permits or "permission" for the children to work in entertainment are protecting the child's health, education and welfare. If your state has lesser rules regarding entertainment, or no set rules at all, consider the fact that children therefore are not specifically protected while working on set.  It will be even more important in these cases for us all to become the child's advocate ensuring that his health, welfare and education are attended to.