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. But with the right preparation and strategies, parents and caregivers can make haircuts less stressful and more manageable.
- Engage in Physical Activities Beforehand Incorporate heavy physical activities like pushing objects, jumping, or walking animals into your child’s routine a few weeks before the haircut. These activities help regulate their tactile system, making them more comfortable with sensory input. Practice these exercises 1-2 times daily for 10–30 minutes.
- Create a Social Story: 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 this social story frequently to reduce anxiety and make the process predictable.
- Role Play Haircuts at Home: Turn the experience into a game! Use pretend tools or safety scissors to role-play a haircut at home. Pair this activity with calming tools like a weighted blanket or fidget toys to help your child stay seated and relaxed.
- Build a Sensory Toolkit: Create a customized sensory toolkit with your child. Include items like stress balls, sensory-friendly brushes, or weighted toys. Practice using these tools during role-play or before the actual haircut to create a sense of comfort and predictability.
- Start Touching the Hair Gradually: In the weeks leading up to the haircut, gently play with your child’s hair. Brush it occasionally, experimenting with different styles. If brushing feels too overwhelming, begin with one stroke and gradually increase as your child gets more comfortable.
- Visit the Barbershop Ahead of Time: A pre-visit can do wonders. Familiarize your child with the barbershop environment, meet the stylist, and let them 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.
- Break the Haircut Into Steps: For children who find it hard to sit still, break the haircut into smaller segments. 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.
- Work With a Sensitive Stylist: Choose a stylist experienced with sensory-sensitive children. Discuss your child’s needs beforehand and request accommodations like sensory-friendly music or tools to make the experience more comfortable.
Navigating haircuts with sensory-sensitive children takes time, but with patience, consistency, and the right strategies, children can learn to tolerate and even develop positive associations with haircuts. If challenges persist, consulting a child therapist specializing in sensory processing can provide tailored solutions for your child’s unique needs.
If you want to read this blog on our page, click below:
Browse through our blog collection here:
