Preparing your child for a commercial audition can be both exciting and challenging. Here are several tips to help ensure your child is prepared:
1. Understand the Brief
First and foremost, make sure you both understand what the audition is for. What is the product? What role is your child auditioning for? This will give you the context needed to prepare effectively.
2. Practice the Script
If there is a script provided, make sure your child has it memorized and understands the meaning behind the lines. Encourage your child to practice delivering the lines in front of you or a camera. This will help them feel more comfortable and confident.
3. Work on Improvisation
In addition to the script, many child auditions for advertisement might ask for some level of improvisation. Kids should be prepared to think on their feet and show off their creativity.
4. Develop Acting Skills
If your child hasn’t already, consider enrolling them in acting classes. These can help them understand how to portray emotions effectively, improve their memorization skills, and increase their comfort on stage or in front of a camera.
5. Dress Appropriately
Ensure your child is dressed appropriately for the audition. If the casting call specifies a particular type of clothing, make sure they wear it. Otherwise, go for neat, comfortable, and relatively neutral clothing.
6. Healthy Lifestyle
Ensure your child gets a good night’s sleep before the audition and eats a healthy meal. They need to be in top physical and mental form to give their best performance.
7. Prepare for the Interview
Often, casting directors will want to talk to the child and the parent to get a sense of their personality and dedication. Prepare your child for this by doing mock interviews at home.
8. Stay Calm and Positive
Remind your child to stay calm during the audition and always show enthusiasm and positivity. Even if they make a mistake, encourage them to carry on and not let it affect their performance.
9. Dealing with Rejection
It’s also crucial to prepare your child for the possibility of not getting the part. Let them know that it’s part of the industry and doesn’t reflect on their abilities. It’s important to keep auditioning and not get discouraged.
10. Etiquette
Teach your child about basic etiquette in such settings – how to introduce themselves, make eye contact, thank the casting directors, etc. Good manners can leave a positive impression.
Remember, each audition is a learning experience, whether your child gets the part or not. Always encourage them to do their best and enjoy the process.
Also read: Starting as a Foster Parent: Improve Your Knowledge and Understanding of the Process
