Just to say-- I have put ALOT of kids in movies.And I always feel a little guilty about it, like I am enabling an addiction or something. Every one in a while there is that rare kid (and I mean maybe once every 2 years) who LOVES it, loves the whole process from the auditions to the costume fittings to being in front of the camera. And the parents help them because it is clear that the kid is SO passionate that they have to do this. But all the others--I don't think it is EVER good. Most of the kids are trying very hard to win their parents approval (which is often with held to "get" the kid to do something he/she won't do). it is boring. Movie and commercial shoots always push the boundaries of kids' exhaustion (even though they are not "supposed" too) because so much $$$ is riding on getting little tommy to step on his mark and smile, or say his line right. And even if YOU are not a horrible pushy stage mother (and Tamar, I know you're not!) pretty much every other mom you meet will be, and they will look at your kid as just another obstacle in THEIR kids' way. It is just a toxic environment and I hate that I contribute to it. Stay away!!!

Thanks, Christine! I think I did know that stuff, but there was this part of me that wanted to let him shine. It felt good to have someone with that professional eye say how cute he was, y'know? To see him in terms that never mentioned neurological deficits. But yeah, I think it would probably be harmful. He needs a nurturing childhood, even more than most kids. And you're right, I'm no stage mom. I think I needed you to remind me of that.