Safety Tips for Kids Entertainment
Hiring an entertainer means a stranger spends time with your child. Here’s the checklist every parent should run before signing anything.
1. Ask about background checks
Reputable companies background-check every entertainer (BCI, fingerprint, child-welfare clearance). Ask for it in writing. If they hesitate, walk away.
2. Confirm insurance
General liability AND professional liability. $1M minimum each. Ask for the COI (Certificate of Insurance) — should arrive in 24 hours.
3. Allergy and sensitivity disclosure
Tell them everything in advance: food allergies, sensory sensitivities, fear of loud noises, fear of the character. Good entertainers adapt the routine on the fly.
4. Costume safety
Mascot vision is limited. Ask if there’s a ‘spotter’ helper who guides the mascot near stairs, pools, glass tables. For overnight events, costumes need ventilation breaks every 25–30 minutes.
5. Two-deep rule
An entertainer should never be alone with a child. Bathroom breaks, photo sessions, off-camera moments — always with a second adult present. This is industry standard.
6. Get their cancellation policy
What happens if they’re sick day-of? Replacement entertainer, full refund, or both? It WILL happen eventually — better to know.
7. Trust your gut at the door
If something feels off when the entertainer arrives — costume looks tired, attitude is off, smells of smoke — you can refuse the service. Reputable companies will refund without argument.
