Salary & saving up

Sandra, who is the mother of Josefine and Nicoline, shares her thoughts on economy and salary when working as a kids model.

What were your initial thoughts about the salary when working as a kids model?

When we signed Josefine up to the modelling agency, we had not thought about the salary at all. The only important thing to us was to see if it was something Josefine would like. We have of course thought about the salary afterwards, but it is certainly not what draws us. When Nicoline was signed up, it was only so that she could have some great experiences as well. However, I think there is a really nice and appropriate salary level at Le Management Kids.

Do you experience a difference in the salary level from job to job?

Of course, some jobs pay more than others, but I could never imagine saying yes or no to a job based on the salary. Instead, we assess whether it is a suitable job for our girls and if it fits with our calendar. I do not think about the salary, neither before nor after a job, nor do I ask about it. I know the travel expenses are covered when working outside of Aarhus and that is the most important thing. I do not really think too much about the fact that the salary varies. We just get a total fee when the salary is paid, and I think it is fine as it is. We have made an account for each girl into which their salary goes directly. So far, we have not decided what to do with the money, so right now they are just in a savings account and when they get older, they can help decide if we want to use them to buy some bigger things once in a while.

“What matters most to us is without a doubt seeing how happy the girls are when we leave and proudly tell everyone about it when we get home”

Sandra Bode

Can you possibly earn a lot as a kids model?

I think you can easily earn a lot as a kids model. Of course, there is a difference in how many jobs you get offered and how often, but the children can definitely start their own savings. 

Is it worth it for parents to take time off to attend modelling jobs?

Of course, it has to be financially viable. I think it is, but it is not a profitable business if you have to take time off your own job every time. The travel allowance covers all transport costs and usually a little more. I would say that as long as it does not result in a deficit, then it is just about taking the chance, because you also have to remember that it is not just about the salary, you get a lot of experiences with your child and that is something you cannot put a price on. What matters most to us is without a doubt seeing how happy the girls are when we leave and proudly tell everyone about it when we get home. Seeing the joy in the eyes of the girls is worth anything. And then, of course, it is only a plus that you get paid as well.

How do you manage the transport to and from jobs?

Fortunately, we have our own car at our disposal, so we are very flexible in terms of transport. We have also traveled widely around the country and of course it would not have been the same if we did not have a car. Because we have a car, we can accept most job options, because we can get there easily and quickly, but if we were to take public transport, I would probably think a little more about the jobs offered and whether it could be done. We have sometimes considered the train and the metro when we go to Copenhagen, as it is difficult to find parking, but we have always ended up taking the car, and it works out just fine anyway.

Any advice for other parents of kids models?

I believe that you should ask yourself and more importantly your child if you are happy when you are at work. If it feels right, then just take the chance. And then it is important to have patience. It may be a long time between jobs being offered, but just hang in there. There must be something for everyone out there. Remember to do this for the children’s sake and on the children’s terms. And make sure you enjoy yourself when you are at work. The children soak it all up, and it’s a huge experience for them. Especially the times when we have been away for several days and stayed at a hotel and made a trip out of it, are remembered as something very special. So take the chance and enjoy good times with your children.