Working With Young Crew Safely: Consent, Hours and Guardians

Whether the cast and crew are classmates or hired young actors, a few simple practices keep a shoot safe, legal and enjoyable.

Get written permission. A parent or guardian should sign for every person under 18 who appears in the film or works on set, including permission to show the finished film publicly and online.

Keep shoot days short. Young people tire quickly. Plan breaks, snacks and water, and schedule the hardest scenes early in the day when energy is high.

Never leave a child alone with an adult who is not their guardian. Keep a second responsible adult present, and make sure parents or guardians know where and when the shoot takes place.

Check the rules where you live. Provinces, territories and countries set limits on hours and conditions for performers who are minors. Look them up before the shoot, not after.

Respect a "no". If a young person does not want to do a scene, change the plan. A film is never worth a child feeling uncomfortable.

Keep a simple record — who was on set, when, and who signed what. It protects everyone, and a festival may ask for it.