He began his professional career as a child actor. Between 1953 and 1958, he worked steadily in films and television, including the 1956 movie "The Swan", starring Grace Kelly. He appeared as Ezio Pinza's son Andrew Bonino on the NBC television show "Bonino". One of his co-stars on "Bonino" was 14-year-old Chet Allen, who appeared as Jerry Bonino. Parks and Allen were roommates at the Boychoir School. Parks also had a recurring role as Little Tommy Manicotti (the kid from upstairs) on Jackie Gleason's "The Honeymooners".