Child's First Haircut
Your child's first haircut can be hair-raising experience (get it?)—but it can be a lot of fun, too!
First, you'll have to decide whether you want to cut your child's hair at home or if it's wise to let the pros take over. If your kid is going through a serious battle of wills with you, he may be more cooperative for a stranger. But if he's got stranger anxiety, being approached by a scissor-wielding stranger will not be the comfiest feeling. Only you can decide what will work best for your child.
Here are a few tips to make that first haircut less stressful, whether it's at home or the salon:
Here are a few tips to make that first haircut less stressful, whether it's at home or the salon:
At Home ...
If you decide to cut your child's hair yourself, sit him in his high chair. You'll find it much easier to prevent him from wiggling around. (Note: Some recommend placing the high chair in front of a mirror so your child can watch while you cut his hair—but obviously, you'll only want to do this if you're sure your child won't be freaked out by the sight of scissors nearing his head!)
Dampen your kid's hair using a plant mister filled with water and a bit of hair conditioner. It'll make his hair easier to cut and detangle (one less thing to cry about!).
Cut your child's hair with blunt scissors to avoid accidental nicks and scratches—especially if he unexpectedly launches into wiggle mode. Prepare to complete his haircut in stages if he's in an active stage.
If you think the blow dryer will scare the pants off your kid, let his hair air dry. You don't want to round up a successful first haircut by traumatizing him with a noisy blow dryer!
At the Salon ...
When you discuss your child's upcoming trip to the hair salon, use the word "trim" instead of "cut" to explain what the hair dresser is going to do. That way, he won't be totally freaked out.
Choose your child's hairdresser wisely! You'll want to find someone who's comfortable working with young children.
Realize that their first haircut could be a little traumatic for your child. Not only will he be in a strange environment, but there will be scissors flashing and clippers buzzing!
Change your child's shirt after his haircut. It will minimize post-haircut itchiness!
Last but definitely not least, save a lock of your child's hair—it's an important memento for his baby book.
report abuseLast but definitely not least, save a lock of your child's hair—it's an important memento for his baby book.
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