10 Must-Know Tips for Parents Supporting Kids in Acting and Musical Theatre

As a parent, supporting your child’s dreams of becoming a Broadway star or landing a role in a TV show can be both exciting and overwhelming. From navigating auditions to balancing school and extracurriculars, helping your child succeed in acting and musical theatre requires a thoughtful approach.

At Broadway Kids Auditions (BKA), located in the heart of New York City, we’ve worked with hundreds of parents and kids, helping them navigate the competitive world of acting and theatre. Whether your young performer dreams of starring on Broadway or excelling in local NYC theatre productions, these 10 must-know tips will help you support them every step of the way.

1. Understand Your Child’s Passion

Before diving into acting classes or auditions, take the time to understand why your child loves acting or musical theatre. Is it the thrill of performing? The joy of singing? The camaraderie of being in a cast? Knowing their “why” can help you guide them toward opportunities that align with their goals and keep them motivated.

Pro Tip: Many kids dream of performing on Broadway, but exploring local NYC theatre opportunities—like community stages or workshops—can be an excellent starting point.

2. Research the NYC Acting and Theatre Industry

New York City is the entertainment capital of the world, making it a prime location for young performers. To support your child’s journey, it’s essential to understand how the local industry operates, including:

• NYC-based auditions (in-person and virtual)

• The best acting coaches and programs in the city

• Networking events and workshops for young actors

• The importance of headshots, resumes, and self-tapes tailored for New York casting directors

Staying informed will help you make better decisions and ensure your child is prepared for the unique challenges of the NYC acting scene.

Recommended Resource: Check out BKA’s expert-led workshops in NYC, where we break down industry essentials for both kids and parents.

One of our Broadway kids auditioning in NYC nails the note

3. Provide Emotional Support

Theatre kids face rejection more often than success—it’s the nature of the business, especially in a competitive city like New York. Your child might not get every role they audition for, and that’s okay. Be their biggest cheerleader, reminding them that every “no” is one step closer to a “yes.”

Quick Tip: Celebrate their effort, not just their results. Say things like, “I’m so proud of the hard work you put into that audition,” rather than focusing on the outcome.

4. Help Them Stay Organized

Between auditions, rehearsals, and schoolwork, your child’s schedule can quickly become overwhelming. This is especially true in NYC, where auditions and callbacks can pop up at a moment’s notice. Teach them how to manage their time effectively by:

• Creating a shared calendar for rehearsals and auditions.

• Setting aside specific time for schoolwork and relaxation.

• Keeping track of deadlines for self-tape submissions and callbacks.

Bonus: Download our free Broadway Audition Checklist for NYC Kids to help your child stay organized and confident.

5. Invest in the Right Training

Acting and musical theatre require continuous skill-building. Enroll your child in classes or programs that focus on:

• Acting techniques (e.g., scene study, character development).

• Vocal training and performance.

• Dance and movement skills for stage performance.

NYC is full of incredible opportunities for kids to train with professionals who understand the demands of Broadway. At Broadway Kids Auditions, we offer top-tier coaching and workshops tailored to NYC kids and teens, ensuring they’re prepared for auditions and beyond.

Pro Tip: Look for programs with experienced NYC coaches who have direct connections to Broadway and local theatre productions.

Singer-songwriter and actress Renee Rapp has fun teaching at one of BKA's NYC acting workshops for kids

6. Keep It Fun

While your child may take their Broadway dreams seriously, it’s important to keep the experience enjoyable. Encourage them to explore different roles and genres, and remind them that acting should be as much about the process as it is about the result.

Activity Idea: Take advantage of NYC’s rich theatre scene by attending kid-friendly Broadway shows or local performances together to inspire them.

7. Network with Other Parents (Especially in NYC)

There’s a lot to learn as a parent of an aspiring performer, and other parents can be a valuable resource. In NYC, there are countless opportunities to connect with families on a similar path, such as:

• Joining local theatre groups or Facebook communities.

• Attending workshops and events hosted by organizations like Broadway Kids Auditions.

• Sharing tips and advice with other parents at auditions or classes.

At BKA, we’ve created a supportive community for NYC parents to share advice, ask questions, and connect with industry professionals.

Join Now: Check out our Facebook page for Broadway Kids Auditions parents in NYC!

8. Teach Them Resilience

The entertainment industry is full of ups and downs, and building resilience is key to long-term success. Teach your child how to handle rejection, learn from feedback, and stay positive. Remind them that every audition is a learning experience, whether or not they land the role.

Mantra to Share: “Your talent will shine when the right role comes along.”

9. Support Their Growth Beyond Theatre

While acting and musical theatre may be their passion, it’s important to help your child develop a well-rounded identity. Encourage them to:

• Stay engaged in school and hobbies outside of theatre.

• Build friendships both inside and outside of the performing arts world.

• Take breaks to recharge and avoid burnout.

This balance will not only make them happier but also add depth to their performances.

Learning to trust the process at Broadway Kids Auditions’ NYC acting classes for kids

10. Trust the Process

Every child’s journey in acting and musical theatre is unique. Some may land a role quickly, while others may take years of training and auditions to break through. Trust that with the right support, training, and opportunities, your child will grow both as a performer and as a person.

At Broadway Kids Auditions, located in New York City, we focus on helping kids develop confidence, resilience, and professional skills—values that will serve them on and off the stage.

Why NYC Is the Perfect Place for Aspiring Performers

New York City offers unparalleled opportunities for young actors and singers. From Broadway stages to off-Broadway productions and community theatre, the city is brimming with chances for kids to gain experience and grow as performers. At Broadway Kids Auditions, we provide the training and support NYC kids need to stand out in this competitive environment.

BKA’s workshops, guides, and a supportive NYC-based community can help you navigate your child’s performing arts journey

Why Broadway Kids Auditions is the Perfect Partner for NYC Parents

At Broadway Kids Auditions, we understand the challenges parents face when supporting their child’s Broadway dreams. That’s why we offer:

• Expert Coaching: From audition prep to vocal training, our coaches are industry professionals based in NYC who know what it takes to succeed.

• Parent Resources: Workshops, guides, and a supportive NYC-based community to help you navigate your child’s performing arts journey.

• Student Success Stories: Our students have landed roles in Broadway shows, national tours, and TV series. Your child could be next!

Ready to Support Your Child’s Broadway Dreams?

If you’re looking for expert guidance, top-notch training, and a community of like-minded parents and performers in NYC, Broadway Kids Auditions is here for you. Explore our membership program for personalized coaching, audition workshops, and much more.

CTA: Click here to learn more about our NYC membership program and start your child’s journey to Broadway today!