Need ideas to avoid problems during your toddler’s first haircut?

There comes a point in every toddler’s life when he or she must have a hair cut. Sure, you can put it off as long as possible, but at some point, people will start thinking your little boy is a girl, or comment on your daughter’s scruffy split ends!

Girls are probably a bit easier because you can get away with just doing a trim at home until they are old enough to understand. However, a boy tends to need a bit more sculpting and those first few haircuts can be difficult. With everything so strange, sitting in a giant chair, with weird, noisy tools running around his head, controlled by a complete stranger, no less . . . well, things can get a little hairy! Pun intended.

First, it helps if your child is already accustomed to the sights and sounds of the barber shop. Make a point of taking him along when his father has a haircut. He will become used to the noise and the smell and might even be eager to “be like Daddy”!

Some salons are more child-friendly than others. Look for one where the staff has experience dealing with children. They will be more patient with your frightened little one and may have a few tricks up their sleeves! It may help to take your child for a visit, just to watch, before the actual haircut day. Introduce him to the staff and let him get more comfortable with one hairdresser who will later cut his hair.

If you can find a salon that has fun chairs for kids, all the better. Some places have cars or carousel horses where children can sit during their haircut. This may make a haircut more appealing to a car-crazed little boy!

Another trick is to hold your toddler on your lap while his hair is being cut. He will feel more secure, but probably won’t wiggle any less! Try giving him a new dollar store toy to play with or a lollipop to keep him occupied. Books are another great distraction and will keep his head tilted forward so the hairdresser has perfect access to the back.

First haircuts aren’t always as bad as parents expect, but they can certainly be a worry. To make things easier for your little one, make sure he is well prepared. Talk about how great his hair will look after the haircut and let him get familiar with the salon or barber shop, before it’s his turn!

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