working with minors Template.xlsx

	A	B	C	D	E
1	WORKING WITH MINORS CHECKLIST
2	SECTION	CRITERIA	YES	NO	NOTES
3	1. LEGAL & SUPERVISION REQUIREMENTS	Is the appropriate child performance licence secured?
4		Has a certified chaperone been assigned and briefed?
5		Are supervision ratios appropriate for the minor’s age and activity?
6		Has parental/guardian consent been formally obtained for all proposed scenes?
7		Has the production received any necessary school permission or exemptions?
8	2. ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY & WELLBEING	Is a designated rest area or holding space provided and safe (no hazards)?
9		Are adequate amenities available (toilets, water, shelter, changing room)?
10		Are safety protocols in place for all equipment and set elements within reach of the minor?
11		Has costume/makeup been checked for allergens or irritants specific to the child?
12		Is there a mental health or pastoral contact available if needed?
13	3. WORKING CONDITIONS	Is the daily schedule age-appropriate and compliant with child labour laws?
14		Has travel time been reasonably considered within the legal working hours?
15		Are structured meal and rest periods clearly included in the call sheet?
16		Are breaks adapted based on the minor’s energy levels and needs on set?
17		Will the child be expected to perform stunts or physically demanding scenes?
18		(If yes, has this been cleared by a guardian and a professional?)
19	4. ORIENTATION & TRAINING	Has the child had a production walk-through or induction session?
20		Has the crew been made aware of safeguarding practices and respectful behaviour expectations when working with underage performers?
21		Is there a designated safeguarding contact or welfare officer on the team?
22	5. COMMUNICATION & CONSENT	Has the script, schedule, and risk assessment been reviewed with the child’s guardian and chaperone?
23		Has the child been consulted in a respectful, age-appropriate manner about their scenes and tasks?
24		Is there a clear process in place for the child to raise concerns on set?
25		Have any personal, cultural, or psychological needs been discussed and addressed in advance?
26	6. POST-SHOOT CHECKS	Will a welfare debrief be conducted with the child and their chaperone at the end of each shoot day?
27		Are there procedures for reporting concerns raised during or after the shoot?
28		Has the production planned for ongoing support if the scenes are emotionally taxing or sensitive?
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30	HELPFUL TIPS
31	Build rapport early — take time to introduce the child to key crew members in a calm, friendly way. This builds trust and reduces anxiety on set.
32	Avoid intimidating equipment setups — try to keep heavy rigs, lighting gear, and noisy machinery away from where the child waits or performs.
33	Use rehearsal as a warm-up — not just for blocking, but to help the child get comfortable with their lines and environment.
34	Keep directions simple and clear — avoid abstract performance notes; use visual or emotional references they understand.
35	Involve them in the process — kids can be curious and confident when they know what’s happening; show them the camera or playback if appropriate.
36	Be flexible — children can get tired, overstimulated, or distracted quickly. Adjust your shot list or schedule if needed.
37	Use visual cues instead of verbal ones — when resetting, use hand signals or visual markers to help the minor hit marks.
38	Avoid sarcasm, swearing, or dark humor — even if it’s between adults, the child is listening and may feel uncomfortable or confused.
39	Have quiet time options — some children may need downtime or a quiet space if overstimulated.
40	Give positive reinforcement — a simple “great job” goes a long way in keeping morale high.
41	Keep parents/guardians informed — even small changes to the plan should be communicated to them first.
42	Don’t assume maturity based on looks — some teens may look older but still need gentle guidance and age-appropriate handling.
43	Watch body language — if a child seems withdrawn, overwhelmed, or uneasy, pause and check in before continuing.
44	Be extra discreet with sensitive scenes — if the film involves emotional material, brief all nearby crew to act with empathy and professionalism.
45	Have entertainment options nearby — books, games, or coloring materials can help kids stay relaxed between takes.
46	Check in after each take — not just for performance, but to see if they’re okay physically and emotionally.
47	Prepare for exits — make wrap time feel celebratory, not abrupt. Say thank you and acknowledge their contribution personally.
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