In the long list of “to do’s” in getting our kids back to school, a trip to a hair salon usually makes the cut (yes, I went there). But for some of us, it’s a daunting task. Many children dread the duty of sitting mostly still for up to 30 minutes while an adult they don’t know very well scrubs, pulls, and pushes their heads.
But as a hairstylist, I’m here to tell you that with a little preparation and flexibility, you can erase the anxiety of the salon chair and turn it into a pleasant experience for everyone.
1. Know What You Both Want
Depending on the age and interest level of the child, some may have an idea of what they want their hair to look like. Some may leave the decision up to you and others will protest the whole way.
That’s why it’s critical to have the conversation settled before your arrival so you can briefly describe the style you’re looking for and avoid an argument in the shop. Bringing in a few pictures that you’ve agreed on together is the best way to ensure clear communication between the parent, child, and stylist.
2. Have Realistic Expectations
If you have a wiggly, can’t-sit-still kid kind of kid, don’t expect all straight lines and perfect edges. When a child won’t stop moving, it’s almost impossible to get a perfect cut. For example, a stacked angled bob with a straight across bang isn’t the best idea for the girl who’s antsy to get to out of the chair. Imagine a revolving target.
Instead, choose styles with more room for error: side bangs, long layers, and clipper cuts that are one length around instead of precisely faded. Remember to be open to your stylist’s ideas for looks that will require less maintenance and upkeep based on the hair type and time you have to spend making it actually look like the picture every morning.
3. Participate in the Haircut
As much as I love to seize an opportunity for another adult to briefly be in charge so I can catch up on emails or flip through a gossip magazine, this is not the time to do it. If your child has a difficult time getting their hair cut, it takes enough concentration for us to perform the task at hand. We already feel a little bit like the “bad guy” so we definitely don’t want to be reprimanding them. Please assist us if your child needs help keeping their head in the right direction or is having a hard time following directions.
Nobody in the salon will judge you if you give your child an Ipad. In fact, we encourage it. Special distractions help tremendously to keep the haircut moving along.
4. Don’t “Walk In”
Forging a relationship with a stylist from an early age is the best way to ensure a pleasant experience each time your child needs to visit the salon. The familiarity of the shop and the stylist will lessen your child’s anxiety and enable them to look forward to their visit as a chance to see their “friend” and catch up on everything they’ve been up to!
Seek out recommendations from friends or call local salons asking if they have certain stylists who are especially good with kids.
5. Know When To Let Go
If your child is having a really rough day, and just not cooperating, it is usually best to leave and try another time. As with any new experience, visiting the hair salon should leave a positive impression on your child. Racing out kicking and screaming will not prepare them to have better luck next time.
