Find a Kid-Friendly Salon
Choosing stylists trained to work especially with kids is important when your child is young. They know how to interact with toddlers and how to make the process less intimidating. And on top of that, most of these salons have a fun atmosphere. The walls are bright and colorful, other kids will be there, the equipment is kid-size, and the chairs usually have neat designs like animals, princesses, or racecars.
Kid-friendly stylists also allow parents to be part of the experience. If your child has a problem sitting still, for example, they might put her in your lap for the cut (some places even have double-headed capes that fit two).
Prepare Ahead Of Time
When setting up the appointment, make sure you pick a time when your child is less likely to be cranky (well before or after naps and meals). Many parents make the mistake of combining the appointment with a bunch of other errands. If you add "stop at the salon" to a long list of other errands, your toddler will be tired and impatient by the time you get there.
If possible, drop by the salon a day or two in advance, so your child will be familiar with the place and will feel more at ease when the big day arrives. Another good idea is to play a game of "barber shop" at home. Pretend to do his hair with a comb and spray bottle then switch places and let him have a turn "styling" your hair.
Choose Your Words Wisely
Toddlers have a limited vocabulary, so every word they know has specific meaning-and elicits a specific reaction. So saying, "haircut" may scare her. Many salons geared for children will not use the word "cut" in front of the kids because it may have a negative reaction. They'll opt for "trim" or "style", or simply say, "Let me brush your hair." Afterward, don't forget to praise her and make a big deal about how good she looks, "Oh, see how cute your new hair is!"
Make It Fun
If you take the whole process too seriously, so will your toddler. Instead, make sure you keep things light. Introduce your child to the tools of the trade beforehand. Show him the trimmer, let him hold it and feel its vibration when it's turned on and how it sounds. Explain that it feels like a tickle and let him watch as you put the trimmer on your palm to show that it feels OK.
Try distracting him with toys, such as his favorite stuffed animal, a bottle of bubbles, or even a cheap plastic doll and toddler-safe scissors so he can give it a haircut. If he doesn't like wearing a cape, which can be tight and scratchy, don't push it. Take a spare t-shirt for your child to change into after the cut.
The idea is to get through it without any tears or tantrums. This way, he leaves with a positive memory for the next time around.
Kat Hafen writes for many baby publications including HugaMonkey, which has baby slings, changing pads, baby carriers, and much more. Visit HugaMonkey to find the perfect item to help with your baby!
Tags: family, parenting, infants, toddlers, first haircut, toddler's first haircut, cutting your child's hair, child haircut, kid haircuts