Hairy Haircuts

Haircuts can get a bit hairy, especially if it's the first!

Description:
Getting a haircut is not usually a child's favorite thing to do, even if he or she has experienced it before. Seeing a strange person pick up a pair of scissors and approach your head can seem quite threatening! And children take things literally; they associate the word haircut with something that hurts, not realizing that their hair has no feeling.

Here are some suggestions to make the whole event less "hairy" for everyone.

Step by Step:

Your child will feel more at ease if he or she sees you getting a haircut first. Make an appointment to get a cut right before your child does. (See "Safe and Sound" below.)
Find out if there are any salons in your area that specialize in children's haircuts. You'll find these salons to be brightly colored and decorated with cookie jars full of animal crackers and baskets full of toys. Another plus is that these stylists are accustomed to dealing with kids; they are skilled at cutting quickly while soothing fears and providing distractions.
Purchase some pretty clips and ribbons for your little girl or some cool-colored hair gels for your little guy. Let them participate in the selection process so they feel more in control of the situation.
If this is your child's first experience at the salon, explain what to expect: a wash, a cut and style, and if your child can handle it, a blow dry.
Bring along a still or video camera.
Keep a lock of hair for the scrapbook.

Materials:
A willing child
A camera

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