With many of the world’s top supermodels starting out an early age, you shouldn’t be surprised if your teenage daughter expresses her desire to be a teen model.
A lot of teenagers today are hoping to follow in the footsteps of Kendall Jenner, Gigi and Bella Hadid, and other models who started out young. Their immense popularity, fat pay checks, and glamorous lifestyles seem really enviable, so many teenagers also want to get the chance to experience all that.
As a parent, you have to know that you will have your work cut out for you once your daughter becomes enamoured with modelling. You will be spending a lot of time on the road and doing things you didn’t normally do before. However, you have to remember that all the things you will be doing will show your love and support to your child as she pursues her dream to become a model.
If you don’t know how and where to start supporting your daughter’s dream of becoming a successful teenage model, below are the top three ways you can do so:
1.Find the best modelling agency for your daughter
Your teen will be a step closer to landing several modelling jobs once you find and sign her up with a trustworthy and dependable agency.
Do some research to find a reliable, excellent modelling agency in Australia, for example (or wherever you are located).
Look for an agency that has reputable clients and has signed models that are of a similar age to your teenager. Keep in mind that there are agencies which specialise in teen modelling, so ensure that your chosen firm is known for this.
Once you have shortlisted the local or nearby modelling agencies, make sure they have the necessary licences and permits to operate. Read customer reviews about the agency as well.
If an agency staff charges fees upfront for a consultation or interview, cross it off your list. Additionally, never hand over any amount at your first contact with the agency.
Once you have chosen your agency, bring your daughter to meet her modelling agent. After the meeting, ask her if she feels comfortable working with the agent.
Read the contract carefully before signing it. If you have any questions, ask the agent. Make sure you understand and agree to everything before you sign the document.
2.Chaperone your child
You can show your full support to your daughter by chaperoning her to all modelling auditions, casting calls, and go-sees.
By accompanying your aspiring model to these events, you will put her mind at ease. She will then feel more confident and be able to give her best to nail a modelling job.
Driving your daughter to the venue will ensure that she arrives on time as well. More importantly, by being there, you will be certain that your child is safe and will be auditioning for a legitimate job and a reputable client.
During these auditions, casting calls, and go-sees, continue being a parent as well by:
- Having something in your bag or car ready for your daughter to eat or drink
- Helping her pack the things she needs to bring
- Offering advice if she has problems choosing the right outfit to wear
3.Help your daughter find the right balance
Before your daughter even starts going to auditions, you have to discuss with her what is expected of her as she starts her modelling career under your care.
Since your daughter is still underage and studying, you have to ensure that she can successfully juggle modelling and schoolwork. Explain to your daughter that getting an education is just as important as modelling, and even more so.
You can ensure your daughter will still be performing well in school by helping her make a daily study plan. Make sure she finishes all her assignments and projects even if you two have to travel far for an audition or a job. Encourage her to study her notes when she’s not doing anything so that can be prepared for quizzes or exams as well.
As a final tip, always find a way to provide a positive and happy environment for your daughter to eliminate stress. Making an effort will also ensure that she finds everything about modelling enjoyable and a good learning experience.
Always remind her to be realistic; not everything will go her way. If your daughter gets rejected, encourage her to keep her chin up and to work harder. Keep reminding her that her passion, determination, patience, and hard work will push her to be the model she wants to be.
AUTHOR BIO
Adam Jacobs is the Managing Director of Bubblegum Casting, the longest running agency specialising in babies, children and teen talent in Australia. Bubblegum Casting works with some of Australia’s biggest brands, media properties and agencies to secure talented children to work in Television, Film and Modelling roles.