WHAT TO LOOK FOR IN A KIDS ACTING CLASS

The Essential Checklist for Choosing Quality Training

Beyond the Brochure: Evaluating Quality

With so many acting programs available, how can parents distinguish between quality training and programs that simply look good on paper? The differences can significantly impact your child’s experience and development.

After 25 years in youth acting education, we’ve identified the key elements that separate exceptional programs from mediocre ones. This comprehensive checklist helps you evaluate acting schools with a critical eye and choose the best fit for your child.

ESSENTIAL ELEMENTS

Qualified Instructors:
Industry experience + teaching skill

Appropriate Class Size:
Small groups for individual attention

Clear Curriculum:
Structured skill progression

Positive Environment:
Supportive, not competitive

Gary Spatz’s Quality Standards: “Parents should look for programs that prioritize the child’s well-being while delivering professional training. The best programs have experienced teachers who know how to work with young people, clear educational goals, and an environment where children feel safe to take creative risks.”

Instructor Qualifications: The Most Important Factor

The teacher makes the program. Look for instructors with both professional experience and teaching expertise.

Industry
Experience

Professional credits matter

Teaching
Skill

Works well with children

Ongoing
Training

Continues professional development

Qualification What to Look For Red Flags Why It Matters
Professional Experience Verifiable industry credits Vague or exaggerated resumes Real-world knowledge vs. theory only
Teaching Experience Specific youth teaching background No teaching experience listed Understanding child development
Education/Training Relevant degrees or certifications No educational background Methodology and technique knowledge
References Willing to provide parent references No references available Track record with students

Class Environment and Culture

The classroom atmosphere significantly impacts your child’s experience and growth.

✅ POSITIVE ENVIRONMENT

  • Students support each other
  • Mistakes are learning opportunities
  • Constructive, gentle feedback
  • Emphasis on effort and growth
  • Age-appropriate expectations
  • Safe space for creative risks

❌ NEGATIVE ENVIRONMENT

  • Competitive rather than collaborative
  • Harsh criticism or humiliation
  • Focus on “star” students only
  • Pressure to perform perfectly
  • Comparison between students
  • High-stress atmosphere

Curriculum and Teaching Methodology

A quality program has clear educational goals and a structured approach to skill development.

CURRICULUM ESSENTIALS

  • Clear progression from basic to advanced skills
  • Age-appropriate exercises and material
  • Balanced approach – technique and creativity
  • On-camera training for film/TV preparation
  • Improvisation skills for spontaneity and quick thinking
  • Scene study for character development
  • Audition technique for real-world preparation

Facility and Class Size

Physical space and student-teacher ratios impact the quality of instruction.

8:1
Max Ratio

Students per instructor

Safe
Environment

Clean, organized space

Professional
Equipment

Camera, lighting, sound

Observation and Trial Opportunities

Quality programs are transparent and welcome parent observation.

Observation Opportunity What It Reveals Quality Indicator Red Flag
Class Observation Teaching style, student engagement Welcomes parent observation No observation allowed
Trial Class Student comfort, class dynamics Offers trial opportunities Pressure to enroll immediately
Meet the Teacher Instructor personality, approach Available for questions Inaccessible or rushed
Current Parent References Actual family experiences Provides references willingly No references available
Parent Advice: “We visited three different acting schools before choosing The Playground. Being able to observe classes and talk to current parents made all the difference. Seeing how the teachers interacted with students and how happy the children were during class told us everything we needed to know.” — The Williams Family

EXPERIENCE THE DIFFERENCE FOR YOURSELF

Observe a class, meet our instructors, and see why families choose The Playground.

SCHEDULE A CLASS OBSERVATION

At The Playground, we believe parents should be informed partners in their child’s artistic education. Our transparent approach includes class observations, trial opportunities, and open communication with instructors. We welcome you to see firsthand why our combination of professional expertise, supportive environment, and comprehensive curriculum has made us Los Angeles’ premier acting conservatory for young performers.