The week of May 14th, television networks present their fall schedules in an event called "Network Upfronts." This is when all the pilots that have been produced over the last four months will learn whether they earned a spot in the fall line-up, or if it's back to the drawing board.

So what does that mean to parents of young actors just starting out in the industry? Simple: pilot season is over.

For the next six weeks, the television industry is basically on hiatus. Working television actors are off trying their hands at film, and new actors must wait for the next big event in town: Episodic Season

Episodic season brings about the production of all the new shows – as well as old favorites – offering audition opportunities to actors with every episode they produce – but it doesn't really kick in until the middle of July.

So what's the parent of a young actor to do during this six week period? A lot.

Now is the time to give your child's career a push. Right now agents are padding talent boards preparing for the thousands of costar and guest star roles that will be auditioned once episodic season kicks in.

Casting directors are also filling their files with potential actors for when their shows go into production.

So how do your get your child in front of these agents, or in the files of casting directors? Luckily, this process has already been honed by thousands of actors who came before you.

Up-to-date agency and casting director lists are available at area Samuel French bookstores that include contact information and what kinds of submissions are being accepted. Use them to prepare a mailing to agencies and casting offices seeking actors like your child. Packets should include:

1. A recent headshot; 

2. An updated resume cut to size and attached to the back of the headshot; 

3. A cover letter. Keep this VERY brief. Introduce your child and state that you are seeking representation, or wish to be added to their files. Mention any recent work or high-end training your child has, and thank them for their consideration.

Be sure to include contact information and ship it all in a flat photo (with a full-sized cellophane front) or manila envelope via first-class mail.

And a special note: don't seal the envelope. Instead, use a small piece of tape to hold down the flap. This is very important as there are casting directors who will not open sealed envelopes.

And then, like everything else in this industry, you wait.

Ultimately, this kind of mailing can help get your child's career started. Finding an agent and getting your child into casting directors' files are two huge steps on the road to getting auditions: and auditions lead to jobs.

And if all goes well, when all those roles are being auditioned this fall, your child may just get a shot at finally realizing that dream.