Parent-Manager Checklist

The Parent-Manager Checklist

A practical summary of the journey — from first headshot to final wrap.

Use this checklist as a guide. Every child’s journey is different, and not every item will apply to every family or project.

Phase 1: Getting Setup

• [ ] Documentation: Passport, birth certificate, and school permission letter are scanned and ready.
   
• [ ] The Agent: Representation secured with a clear, signed contract (checked for "Sole Representation" clauses).
   
• [ ] The Look: Professional headshots taken (theatrical and commercial) and uploaded to Spotlight.
   
• [ ] The Accounts: Dedicated bank account opened; spreadsheet set up for income, agent commission, and mileage.
   

Phase 2: The Audition Cycle

• [ ] Self-Tapes: Dedicated "studio corner" in the house with a neutral background and good lighting.
   
• [ ] School Liaison: Headteacher informed of the child’s professional status; template letters ready for absence requests.
   
• [ ] The "Safe Harbour": Post-audition ritual established to decompress and keep being a parent separate from being a manager. 
   

Phase 3: Before the Job

• [ ] Licensing: Application submitted to the Local Authority.
   
• [ ] The Access Rider: Document created listing allergies, sensory needs, emergency contacts, and tips.
   
• [ ] The Script: Script/sides downloaded; "Content Disclosure" checked for age-appropriateness.
   

Phase 4: During the Job

• [ ] The Handover: Full briefing given to the approved  chaperone; Access Rider handed over.
   
• [ ] Education: School work-pack delivered to the on-set tutor.
   
• [ ] Safeguarding: Identified the Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) and the private changing area.
   

Phase 5: After The Project

• [ ] Finance: Invoiced for any expenses; 20% tax set aside (if necessary); Junior ISA topped up.
   
• [ ] Wellbeing: "Cool-down" week scheduled with no industry talk.
   
• [ ] Legacy: Photos and programmes filed in the Memory Box. Social media monitored.