3 Ways to Prepare Your Child for a Haircut.

A child’s first few haircuts can shape how they feel about salon visits in the future. Some kids love the experience, while others might be a little unsure. With the right approach, you can help make their haircut stress-free, enjoyable, and maybe even something they look forward to!

1. Set the Tone with Positivity

Kids are great at picking up on how we feel, so if you stay calm and upbeat, they’ll be more likely to feel the same way. Talk about the haircut in an exciting, lighthearted way—maybe compare it to a fun dress-up game or a mini spa day.

Instead of saying, “It won’t hurt,” which can plant worries they didn’t even have, try something like, “You’re going to feel so fresh and light afterwards!” Watching a short video or reading a book about haircuts can also help make the experience feel familiar before they even step into the salon.

2. Let Them Have a Say

A little bit of control can help your child feel more comfortable. Let them pick out a fun outfit for the day, choose a small toy to bring, or even have a say in their hairstyle (within reason!). If they’re old enough, you can ask if they’d prefer sitting alone or on your lap.

For kids who like to know what’s coming next, walk them through the process in a simple way:
“First, we’ll go to the salon, then you’ll sit in a big chair, and the stylist will give your hair a little mist of water before trimming.”

When they know what to expect, they’re less likely to feel nervous.

3. Bring a Comfort Item or Distraction

A favourite stuffed animal, small toy, or even a snack can make all the difference. If your child enjoys music or watching videos, headphones with their favourite songs or a short show can help keep them relaxed.

If they feel unsure about wearing the salon cape, you can frame it as a superhero cape or let them skip it altogether. Sometimes, small adjustments like holding their favourite toy during the appointment can be all they need to feel secure.

Bonus Tip: Chat With Your Stylist

If your child has any concerns or quirks (like not liking water sprayed near their face), let your stylist know! We’re happy to work with them to make the experience as smooth and comfortable as possible.

With a little preparation and a relaxed approach, your child’s haircut can go from being a “must-do” task to something they actually enjoy. And who knows? They might just start looking forward to their next visit!