5 Tips on Getting a Haircut

Knock, knock who’s “hair”?  Getting a haircut is something we all do on a regular basis. We might get a haircut to sport the fresh new look or because the weather is getting so hot that having the extra hair is now becoming a disaster. No matter what your reason is for getting a haircut, we can all agree that it can be quite uncomfortable to be in that salon/barber’s chair. For instance, remember how the hair can get stuck on your shirt or make your neck tickle? Or how about the sensation of the scissors making their first cut? With children on the autism spectrum, making a trip to the salon/barber is not only uncomfortable but can be nearly impossible. So we’d like to dedicate this blog to help make your child’s haircut a little more enjoyable. Here are 5 tips that can help:

1. Have a Visual Tour: For children on the spectrum, going to new and/or unknown places can be challenging. Because of this, it might be wise to talk to the salon/barber owner and inquire if you are able to take a visit of the facility prior to your child’s appointment. This will allow the child to become familiar with their setting and know what will be going on for their upcoming haircut appointment.
2. Avoid Crowds: Children with autism tend to be more comfortable in less crowded settings. It might be wise to contact your salon/barber and ask what days and times are less busy and schedule your appointment then.
3. Speak To Your Stylist: It is important to keep all parties informed. So before taking your child to their first haircut, you should speak to the stylist and inform them of any particular sensitivities that your child might have. This will allow the stylist to be prepared and will assist them in making your child more comfortable.
4. Provide Reinforcers: Provide your child with a reinforcer such as their favorite toy or book. After the haircut, you can reward them with these gifts! It may also be useful to take a picture of the reinforcement object to remind them of it as they are getting their haircut.
5. Practice Practice Practice: Practice makes perfect! There is nothing like cultivating the experience and knowledge to make your child more comfortable in new settings. Practice these steps with your little one at home. Inform your child by using a pair of plastic (fake) scissors to show them the process and steps that the stylist will be making. This will allow your child to know what is going on and will make the haircut process a lot less frightening and a lot more fun! So as you prepare your child for back to school, we wish you an awesome haircutting experience!

To Learn More About Preparing For A Haircut: Click Here.