For many children on the autism spectrum, getting a haircut can be a stressful and overwhelming experience. The sound of clippers, the feeling of hair falling on their skin, the bright lights in a salon, or even just the change in routine can trigger anxiety and sometimes lead to a shutdown.
While haircuts might seem like a simple, everyday activity, for an autistic child, they can involve a flood of sensory issues, unfamiliar expectations, and a lack of control over their environment.
However, with preparation, patience, and the right approach, haircuts don’t have to be a struggle. Without further ado, here are five ways to prepare your autistic child for haircuts.
Create a Predictable Routine and Introduce the Concept Early
Many autistic children thrive on routine and predictability, so it’s important to introduce haircuts as part of their regular schedule.
If possible, avoid waiting until their hair is too long and needs an urgent cut. Doing so can only make the experience feel abrupt and stressful. Instead, make haircuts a routine event, whether it’s every few weeks or months, depending on their needs.
Start talking about haircuts well in advance. Use simple, clear language to explain what will happen. Some children benefit from a visual schedule, which is a series of pictures or drawings that break down the steps involved in getting a haircut. This might include:
- Driving to the salon or setting up at home
- Sitting in the chair
- The stylist using scissors or clippers
- Hair falling on their shoulders
- The final result — clean and neat hair
If your child enjoys social stories, consider creating one specifically about haircuts. A social story is a short, personalized book with pictures and words that explains what to expect and how to handle different situations. It can help them mentally prepare for the experience in a way that feels safe and familiar.
For some children, watching videos of other kids getting haircuts can also help. If they see that the process is quick, painless, and has a clear ending, they may feel more comfortable.
Choose the Right Environment
Where your child gets their haircut can make a huge difference in their comfort level. If a salon or barbershop is too overwhelming, consider cutting their hair at home.
Some parents invest in professional scissors and trimmers to create a controlled, familiar setting. Others invite a mobile hairdresser to their home so their child doesn’t have to leave their safe space.
Before booking an appointment, consider calling ahead to ask about quieter times when the shop is less busy so your child isn’t overwhelmed by loud noises and lots of people.
Bringing familiar items can also help make the space feel safer. A favorite stuffed animal, a weighted lap pad, or noise-canceling headphones can provide comfort. Some children feel more at ease wearing a cape, while others dislike the feeling of it around their neck.
Desensitize Them to Haircuts Through Gradual Exposure
Sudden changes can be distressing for autistic children, so introducing the idea of haircuts in small steps can make a big difference. If your child is highly sensitive to having their hair touched, start by gently running your fingers through their hair at home.
Once they’re comfortable with that, try using a comb or brush.
If clippers are to be used, introduce them gradually. First, let your child see and hold the clippers while they’re turned off. Then, turn them on from a distance so they can hear the sound without feeling overwhelmed.
Slowly bring them closer over time. Some children benefit from feeling the vibration of clippers on their arm or hand before they’re used on their hair.
For children who dislike the sensation of hair falling on their skin, experimenting with different strategies can help. Some parents use a dry towel around the shoulders, while others have their child wear a hoodie to create a barrier. Some children prefer taking a shower immediately after the haircut to wash off any loose hairs.
Offer Choices to Give Them a Sense of Control
Many autistic children experience anxiety when they feel like something is being done to them rather than with them. Giving your child choices can help them feel more in control and reduce stress.
For example, they might choose:
- Whether to have their hair cut at home or in a salon
- Who cuts their hair (parent, barber, hairdresser)
- Whether to sit in a regular chair or on someone’s lap
- If they prefer scissors or clippers
- Whether they want to use a mirror to watch or turn away
Even small choices, like letting them pick their favorite cape color or choosing background music, can make a difference. The more control they have, the less overwhelming the experience will feel.
Use Positive Reinforcement and Distraction
Encouragement and rewards can be powerful tools to help your child get through a haircut.
If they have a favorite snack, toy, or activity, use it as motivation. Some parents use reward charts where each step of the haircut earns a sticker, leading up to a bigger prize at the end.
Distractions can also be helpful. If your child enjoys watching videos, consider letting them watch a favorite show during the haircut. Some parents play calming music or let their child hold a small fidget toy to keep their hands busy.
Using a calm, reassuring voice throughout the process can also make a big difference. Even if your child struggles at first, reminding them that they’re doing a great job and that it will be over soon can help them feel more at ease.
Final Thoughts
Preparing an autistic child for a haircut requires time, patience, and creativity, but it’s absolutely possible to make the experience more manageable. By creating a predictable routine, choosing the right environment, desensitizing them to the process, giving them choices, using positive reinforcement, and being flexible, you can help your child feel more comfortable and in control.
Haircuts may always present some challenges, but with the right approach, they don’t have to be a battle.
Over time, your child can learn to tolerate the process, making haircuts a much less stressful experience for everyone involved. At Golden Care Therapy, we provide high-quality ABA therapy in Florida, New Jersey, Indiana, New York, and Georgia, helping children develop essential coping skills in a supportive and personalized way.
Our experienced therapists use evidence-based strategies to create positive, lasting progress. Contact us today to learn how we can support your child’s journey!
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