Dos and don'ts for chaperones

Do

• check the child is comfortable – you are the person to whom the child looks to guidance, protection, clarification and protect
• stand up for the child above production pressures – one of a chaperone's greatest strengths is their ability to negotiate with the production company 'on site' and be able to say no when what is being requested of the child is contrary or detrimental to the child's health, well-being and/or education
• be the child's champion
• report any concerns and know wo to report them to and know what to do in each case – chaperones should keep a note of important contacts, for example the child's licensing authority, the local authority in whose area the child is performing, the child's agent and the child's parent/legal guardian
• ask to see a copy of the licence
• exercise discretion (only when regulation allows) where that is in the best interests of the child
• be alert to all possible risks to the child
• challenge people and behaviours

Don't

• let the child perform if they are unwell
• leave the child alone with another adult (unless it's their parent or teacher)
• ignore or down play questionable behaviour from adults or other children
• allow the child to be pushed into things that they don’t want to do
• take photos of the child
• seek autographs from performers or become star struck
• use inappropriate language or smoke whilst on duty
• consume alcohol or be under the influence of alcohol whilst on duty
• wear inappropriate clothing