Top Haircut Tips for Sensory-Sensitive Kids

For children with sensory sensitivities, haircuts can be a daunting experience. The buzzing of clippers, the proximity of scissors, and even the sensation of hair falling on their skin can overwhelm them. For some autistic children, the experience can be so intense that it feels like "millions of tiny razor blades" when hair touches their skin. Understanding the sensory challenges involved can help parents and caregivers make the haircut experience more manageable and less stressful.

1. Engage in Physical Activities Before the Haircut: A few weeks before the haircut, incorporate heavy physical activities like pushing objects, jumping, or walking animals into the child’s routine. These activities help to prepare their tactile system for the sensory experience of a haircut. Perform these exercises 1-2 times a day for 10-30 minutes to help the child regulate sensory input.
2. Create a Social Story with Visuals: Social stories are a great way to prepare your child for what to expect. Include pictures of each step involved, from entering the barbershop to sitting in the chair and getting their hair trimmed. Revisit the social story multiple times to help the child understand the process and reduce anxiety.
3. Role Play a Barbershop Scenario: Role-playing can help familiarize the child with the concept of a haircut. Use safety scissors or pretend tools, and take turns “cutting” each other’s hair. Pair this with calming activities like using a weighted blanket or fidget toys to help the child stay seated and relaxed during the role play.
4. Build a Sensory Toolkit: Work with your child to create a sensory toolkit filled with calming items, such as stress balls, sensory-friendly brushes, or weighted toys. Practice using the toolkit during role-play sessions or prior to the real haircut to make the experience more predictable and comforting.
5. Start Touching the Hair Regularly: In the weeks leading up to the haircut, gently play with your child’s hair. Brush it a few times a week and experiment with different styles. If brushing is too overwhelming, start with one stroke at a time and gradually increase the number of strokes as the child becomes more comfortable.
6. Visit the Barbershop Before the Actual Haircut: Take your child to the barbershop ahead of time to familiarize them with the space. Let them meet the stylist and explore sensory-friendly tools, like soft-bristled brushes or vibrating clippers. Ask the stylist if the child can touch the tools beforehand to reduce fear of the unknown.
7. Break the Haircut Into Manageable Steps: If your child struggles with sitting still for long periods, break the haircut into smaller, more manageable sections. Allow short breaks in between each segment to give the child time to regroup. Start with trimming areas like the neck or the ears that cause the least discomfort, and gradually extend the haircut as they become more accustomed to the process.

Working with a Sensitive Stylist: It’s important to communicate your child’s needs to the salon staff ahead of time. Request sensory-friendly music, ask if the stylist has experience with sensory-sensitive children, and be open to discussing any special accommodations that can make the haircut experience more comfortable. By taking these steps, you can help your child navigate the haircut process with greater ease and less stress. It may take time, but with patience and understanding, sensory-sensitive children can learn to tolerate haircuts while developing positive associations with the experience.
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By taking these steps, you can help your child navigate the haircut process with greater ease and less stress. It may take time, but with patience and understanding, sensory-sensitive children can learn to tolerate haircuts while developing positive associations with the experience. If your child continues to struggle, it can be helpful to consult with a child therapist who specializes in sensory processing. A child counsellor can work with you and your child to develop tailored strategies for managing sensory sensitivities, ensuring a smoother, less stressful experience for both you and your child.