For parents guiding their children in the entertainment industry, transitioning from a cute child actor to a teen requires careful planning. Key steps include starting with local performances and classes to build confidence and skill. A professional headshot and resume are essential, even if your child hasn't booked roles yet. As your child progresses, creating online profiles for audition submissions, particularly through self-tapes, becomes vital. Remember, starting with non-union roles is recommended until they gain enough experience. Understanding the roles of agents and managers is crucial, and be wary of misleading ads for auditions, ensuring opportunities are legitimate and support your child’s growth.

1. The Business of Being an Actor by Bradley E. Angle — A solid foundation on how the industry works, how actors get hired, agents, auditions, and contracts.

2. Audition by Michael Shurtleff — A classic on audition technique that’s hugely helpful for kids (and adults) preparing to perform.

3. The Actor’s Life: A Survival Guide by Jodie Foster & Miloš Forman (and various industry mentors) — Great perspective on the realities of acting as a career — how to prepare mentally, emotionally, and professionally.

4. The Complete Idiot’s Guide to Getting an Acting Job by Merrill Schleier — Easy to understand overview of market realities, agents, resumes, headshots, and networking.

5. Break into Hollywood by Susan Shapiro — Practical steps and encouragement for those beginning in entertainment, including how to navigate auditions and industry basics.

6. Guide to Hollywood Agents & Managers: How to Get Them & How to Work With Them by Edward Jay Epstein — Not specifically for kids, but very useful for parents to understand representation.

7. Self-Management for Actors by Judy Kerr — Helpful on building career independence, marketing yourself, and planning an acting career strategically.

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