Getting a haircut can be a challenging experience for many children, but for those with autism, it can be particularly stressful. Sensory sensitivities, unfamiliar environments, and unexpected touches can all contribute to anxiety and meltdowns.
Before the Haircut
A little preparation can go a long way in ensuring a smoother haircut experience. Here are some key steps to take before heading to the salon or barber:
Understanding Sensory Sensitivities
Autistic children often experience sensory sensitivities that can make haircuts overwhelming. These sensitivities can involve any of the senses:
- Touch: The feeling of hair on their skin, the sensation of scissors or clippers, and even the touch of a stylist can be uncomfortable or even painful.
- Sound: The buzzing of clippers, the whirring of hairdryers, and the general noise of a salon can be distressing and overstimulating.
- Sight: Bright lights, flickering fluorescent bulbs, and the quick movements of a stylist can be visually overwhelming.
- Smell: The strong scents of hair products, perfumes, and cleaning solutions can trigger sensory overload.
Understanding your child's specific sensory sensitivities is crucial in preparing for a successful haircut.
Finding a Sensory-Friendly Salon or Barber
More and more salons and barbers are becoming aware of the needs of autistic individuals and are taking steps to create a more sensory-friendly environment. Look for salons that offer:
- Quiet environment: Reduced noise levels, separate quiet areas, or appointment times during less busy periods.
- Dimmed lights: Options to adjust lighting or the availability of natural light.
- Private rooms: A dedicated space away from the main salon floor can minimize distractions and provide a sense of privacy.
- Patient stylists: Stylists experienced in working with autistic clients who understand the importance of clear communication, patience, and flexibility.
You can often find sensory-friendly salons by searching online for terms like "sensory-friendly salons near me" or "autism-friendly barbers."
Preparing Your Child
Preparing your child for the haircut is essential. Here are some strategies to help familiarize them with the process and reduce anxiety:
- Social stories: Use social stories to explain what will happen during the haircut, who will be there, and what to expect.
- Visual schedules: Create a visual schedule with pictures or symbols to show the steps involved in the haircut.
- Videos: Show your child videos of other children getting haircuts to help them visualize the experience.
- Salon visits: Visit the salon beforehand to meet the stylist and explore the environment. This can help reduce anxiety on the day of the haircut.
- Practice haircuts: Practice the haircut routine at home using a doll or stuffed animal. This allows your child to become comfortable with the tools and sensations involved.
Create a Calm and Comfortable Experience During the Haircut
Even with careful preparation, it's important to create a calming and comfortable atmosphere during the actual haircut:
Minimizing Sensory Overload
Here are some ways to minimize sensory overload during the haircut:
Sound:
- Noise-canceling headphones or earplugs: These can help reduce the noise from clippers and hairdryers.
- Calming music or audiobooks: Allow your child to listen to their favorite music or audiobook to provide a sense of comfort and distraction.
Touch:
- Familiar cape: Bring a familiar and comfortable cape from home or ask the stylist to use a lightweight one.
- Sensory tools: Provide calming tactile input with a vibrating toothbrush, stress ball, or other sensory toy.
Sight:
- Dimmed lights or visor: Ask the stylist to dim the lights or provide a visor to block overhead lighting.
- Visual distractions: Bring a favorite toy, book, or tablet to provide visual distraction and engagement.
Smell:
- Unscented products: Request that the stylist use unscented hair products or bring your own.
- Aromatherapy: Consider using calming scents like lavender or chamomile through a diffuser or essential oil blend.
Communication and Breaks
Clear communication and frequent breaks can significantly improve the haircut experience:
- Clear communication: Encourage the stylist to explain each step of the process in simple terms and check in with your child frequently.
- Breaks: Incorporate short breaks during the haircut to prevent sensory overload and allow your child to move around and regulate their emotions.
Positive Reinforcement
Positive reinforcement can make the haircut a more enjoyable experience:
- Praise and rewards: Offer praise and encouragement throughout the haircut. Consider a small reward or special treat afterward to celebrate their success.
Haircut at Home
For some children, getting a haircut at home may be a more comfortable option. Here are some tips for a successful home haircut:
Creating a Relaxing Environment
- Quiet space: Choose a quiet and familiar space in your home for the haircut.
- Minimize distractions: Dim the lights, turn off the TV, and minimize any other potential distractions.
Gathering the Right Tools
- Quiet clippers: Invest in sharp, quiet clippers designed for sensitive skin.
- Essential tools: Have a spray bottle, comb, scissors, and a cape on hand.
Taking it Slow and Steady
- Patience: Be patient and take breaks as needed.
- Small steps: Break down the haircut into smaller, more manageable steps.
Utilizing Distractions
- Entertainment: Allow your child to watch a favorite show, listen to music, or play with a fidget toy to help keep them calm and occupied.
Additional Tips and Resources
Here are some additional resources and strategies that can help:
Weighted Blankets and Sensory Toys
Weighted blankets and sensory toys can provide calming deep pressure input, which can be helpful for reducing anxiety and promoting relaxation during haircuts.
Desensitization Techniques
Desensitization involves gradually introducing your child to the tools and sensations involved in a haircut. This can be done by:
- Letting them touch and explore the clippers and scissors while they are turned off.
- Gradually increasing the amount of time they are exposed to the sounds and sensations of the haircut.
- Pairing the haircut experience with positive reinforcement and rewards.
Get Specialized Treatment with ChildWise ABA
If your child experiences significant anxiety or sensory challenges related to haircuts and other daily activities, consider seeking professional support. ChildWise ABA provides in-home Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy for children with autism throughout Ohio.We offer In-home therapy that allows children to learn and practice skills in the natural context of their everyday lives, promoting generalization to various settings. Our team of experienced therapists can develop individualized treatment plans to address your child's specific needs and help them develop coping strategies for managing anxiety and sensory challenges. To learn more, visit the ChildWise ABA website or contact us for a scheduled consultation.