Life as a child star is often not easy. The kids are put under constant pressure as they are forced to learn how to deal with fame and fortune at a very young age. This is why a lot of them end their acting careers before becoming an adult. Stepping away from the spotlight can help these former stars regain some normalcy in their lives, but that does not mean they have to leave the business completely. These are four former child actors that are now working behind the camera.

Fred Savage

Fred Savage became an instant star after landing the leading role on the television series “The Wonder Years” at the age of 12. After struggling to find consistent acting work as an adult, Savage decided to start directing. He directed his first feature film, “Daddy Day Camp,” in 2007. He has also helped work on dozens of television shows including “Modern Family,” “2 Broke Girls” and “It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia.”

Peter Billingsley

Peter Billingsley may not be a household name, but every film fan will instantly recognize him as Ralphie from “A Christmas Story.” Despite starring in one of the most iconic movies of all time, Billingsley never became a huge star as a child. He quickly focused his efforts on producing and directing as an adult. He has worked behind the scenes on the popular films “Couples Retreat,” “Iron Man” and “Four Christmases.”

Ron Howard

Ron Howard went from being the most famous child actor of all-time to one of the best film directors in the world. Every child actor aspires to have the career of Ron Howard. He gained fame for his roles on “The Andy Griffith Show” and “Happy Days.” Howard’s films have won a total of nine Academy Awards over the years. He earned the Best Director award in 2002 for his work on “A Beautiful Mind.”

John Francis Daley

John Francis Daley had major roles on “Freaks and Geeks” and “Boston Public” as a teenager. While he landed a huge role on the show “Bones” as an adult, he has now completely transitioned his career behind the camera. Daley has worked on the films “Game Night,” “Horrible Bosses” and “Spider-Man: Homecoming” as a writer and director.