MSU Extension Child & Family Development

Have you ever been in a public place where a celebrity walked by? There are usually two types of people: those who rush to bombard celebrities for pictures and autographs and those who stay back and nonchalantly observe from afar. Why do people react differently? It could be partially due to your upbringing and if you were raised to respect people's boundaries, regardless of celebrity status.

As parents and caregivers, we want our children to be confident, kind and respectful, especially when they come face‑to‑face with someone they admire. However, these moments can be exciting for kids and a little stressful for adults. Teaching appropriate behavior around celebrities and well‑known individuals isn’t about saying “don’t be excited.” Rather, it’s about helping children understand the importance of boundaries, respect and empathy – lessons that will serve them well in all of their relationships.

Michigan State University Extension recommends working to increase a child’s social skills to help them understand the appropriateness of when to approach celebrities. Seeing a celebrity is exciting, but for parents and caregivers, it can also be a simple yet meaningful teaching opportunity: a chance to reinforce respect, courtesy and privacy. Denise Salcedo, a multi-media personality who created the media website InstinctCulture.com and hosts a professional wrestling podcast, shared her perspective.  

“As a young fan, I used to see my favorite athletes after shows and really wanted to meet them. I’d watch other kids, and even adults, run right up to them, excited and smiling. But I was always told to stay put and only interact if they approached me. At the time, that was tough. I just wanted to do what everyone else was doing. However, looking back now, I realize my guardian was teaching me something important.”

Children should understand that admiration never equals entitlement. Nothing should ever be expected, whether it’s a photo, autograph or conversation. Modeling polite behavior and reminding kids not to interrupt someone just because they’re famous helps them see that well-known people are still people, worthy of the same kindness and personal space as anyone else.

When approaching a well-known person, model for children how to keep it simple and respectful. Start by being polite and calm, there’s no need to force the moment. Ask nicely, whether it’s for a quick hello, fist-bump, photo or an autograph, and always wait for permission before snapping pictures or holding something out. Give them space, make sure your child understands the celebrity always has the right to say no. If they do answer no, accept this gracefully. A simple “thank you” and moving on shows good manners and respect, which goes a long way.

It really comes down to respecting boundaries. Chasing someone out of a restaurant, following them down the street, or inserting yourself into their conversation is intrusive, and not something you’d want children to do. If your main goal is getting a picture or autograph, pause and think about what your child is learning from that moment. When people are chased, pressured or followed, it sends the message that our wants matter more than someone else’s comfort. It can be helpful to pay attention to body language. If someone avoids eye contact, walks quickly, gives short answers or turns away, they’re likely not interested. On the flip side, relaxed posture, eye contact and pausing may signal they’re open. Reading these cues helps you and your child keep interactions respectful and appropriate.

Many celebrities choose to meet fans at planned events like conventions, meet-and-greets and autograph signings. These settings offer opportunities for parents, caregivers and their children to interact safely and respectfully with actors, musicians, athletes, professional wrestlers and other public figures. You can choose to follow official social media pages to learn about these events, as these structured settings offer the safest and most positive experience. Be prepared that photos or autographs at these events may come with a fee.

Always remember, celebrities are people too. They have good days and bad days, busy schedules, and are often just trying to get somewhere – just like you and your children. They may say no to photos or autographs, and that’s okay. Use these moments to help children understand when it’s appropriate to approach someone and to model kindness and respect. It’s okay for kids to feel excited, just remind them to ask politely and never push if someone seems uncomfortable. Don’t forget, your child is watching how you respond and learning from you.

With these tips, celebrity sightings can be used to teach powerful life skills, boundaries, respect, patience, gratitude and self-control. These lessons go far beyond celebrity encounters; they shape how your child treats people in everyday life.

Learn more about child development, parent and caregiver webinars and family activities by visiting the MSU Extension Child and Family Development webpage and the MI Stronger Family Facebook page.