Big-name magicians such as David Copperfield and David Blaine consistently wow adults. However, there’s a specialty for magicians where the wonder is already built-in: Children’s magic. 

Make no mistake. Learning to become a children’s magician is just as challenging and time-consuming as mastering jaw-dropping escapes or vanishing large objects. The reason it’s so challenging is that the same techniques of dexterity, focus, misdirection and patter are necessary for this specialty as for enthralling adult audiences. The difference is in tailoring tricks for the special traits of a children’s audience. 

First, do some research into what kind of magic act appeals to children. If possible, talk with people who are children’s magicians. If you’re part of the magic community already, this shouldn’t be a problem. If you’re just starting out as a magician, however, you’ll need to establish your credentials, possibly by gaining admission to a local magic club through an audition. 

Children often enjoy illusions that involve producing and vanishing cards and coins. Tricks using scarves and flowers that appear or disappear, or change color or form, also appeal to little ones. Many kid-friendly magic tricks such as coloring books, crayons and cups and balls are available these days. Because of children’s short attention spans, tricks that are colorful, brief and noisy almost always go over well. 

Once you’ve identified a set of short, simple tricks, practice them every day until you can do them perfectly. Children often see things that adults overlook, because their sense of perception isn’t yet constrained by ideas on what they’re “supposed” to see. Consequently, if you flub up one of your movements, or fail to execute a proper misdirection, chances are a little one will both see and announce your mistake. 

Next, come up with a magical persona for yourself. Youngsters love make-believe and dress-up, and they will warm to you more quickly if you appear to be someone out of the ordinary, not just another adult. Start by coming up with a name for your magician identity, something that kids will find fun to say. Try to think of silly names like Professor PurpleBurp or Princess Penelope Peachfuzz. One caution: Young children tend to be frightened of clowns, so it might be best not to be a clown-like children’s magician. 

Now that you’ve developed both a persona and a routine, practice your act on your target audience. Perform for the children in your family or neighborhood. Volunteer to do a show for a local children’s hospital or at the public library. The more you practice in front of an audience, the more you’ll be able to smooth out the rough spots in your performance. 

As soon as you feel confidence in your act, promote your magical services. Spread the word among the parents of your children’s friends. Design some colorful flyers, including pull-off tabs with your telephone number on them. Be sure your flyer includes a photo of yourself in costume as your magical alter ego. Post flyers in grocery stores, churches, community centers, convenience stores, Laundromats or anywhere families might congregate.  

Create a price schedule before your start booking appointments. Set up a simple information sheet for each booking. Ask about the type of event (birthday, etc.), the ages and number of children, and whether there are any special needs. Give your customers the same kind of care you give your magic, and the word will get around. Soon you’ll have bookings galore, and a devoted fan club of children who’ll adore your magic act.