autism

Start With Communication

A successful visit begins with communication between parents, children, and the stylist. Understanding how your kid communicates is critical before discussing length or bangs. Some autistic children speak, while others point, use hand gestures or sign language, show pictures, or communicate through a device. For example, a child could understand what the stylist says without responding. Share the words or signals your family uses day-to-day. Does “wait” mean your child needs more time? Does turning away mean they want the touching to stop? Agree on a clear break signal before tools come near their head. We don’t need a perfect script. A few useful details help us understand your child’s needs. Autistic children need time to respond. Repeating questions in quick succession or having several adults speaking at once may make the situation more difficult. A brief explanation followed by a quiet pause leaves room for the kid to respond.

Create a Haircut Plan Before You Arrive

To start the conversation, call or visit the salon in advance, telling the staff that your child is autistic. Then, explain how he or she functions and what to avoid. One kid may enjoy the clippers but dislike hair in the eyes. Another may find waiting harder than the trim. These five details can help the stylist prepare:

• Today’s goal: Trim hair out of the eyes, tidy the ends, or discuss a larger change.
• Please avoid: Unexpected water spray, strong scents, or touching a sensitive area.
• Communication: The words, pictures, gestures, or device your child uses.
• Comfort: A familiar object, preferred topic, or helpful way for you to stay nearby.
• Pause signal: How your child asks to stop and what helps them recover.

For example, if Maya wants her bangs out of her eyes, she needs to see the comb first. Or if she needs a break, she points to her break card. The American Autism Association’s haircut preparation resource also suggests discussing the haircut plan with the hairdresser and using pictures to explain the visit to your child. Call ahead to discuss timing and specific requests. Ask what can be arranged rather than assuming every option will be available.

Choose a Haircut That Fits Your Child’s Sensory Needs

A photo helps explain a hairstyle, but it does not show every tool needed to create it. A close fade may require clippers near the ears. Longer hair may need more brushing or detangling at home. You can look through the boys haircuts guide and the girls haircuts guide with your child if they enjoy looking at pictures. Bring your favorites but be willing to adjust because the chosen style might not work for your child. For a specific style, ask:

• Can this look be adapted if my child dislikes buzzing tools?
• How much hair will touch the ears or neck afterward?
• What brushing or styling will be needed between visits?

Not every haircut works for every child, including autistic children. The right style balances your child’s preferences and needs, hair texture, daily care, and comfort with the tools involved. A simple trim may be a better starting goal than a major change.

Show Your Child What to Expect

A few photos or videos can show your child how a salon operates and a stylist works. Take them through the general steps: arrival, meeting the stylist, combing, trimming, and going home. Keep it simple. Avoid making any promises, including on timing, which could be uncertain. Before the haircut begins, ask the stylist to describe each step as it comes. For example, “We’ll start with the comb, which will touch your head and hair.” The stylist will show them the comb and give them time to process. Be sure to give your kid what they need to stay calm, such as a favorite toy or just holding their hand. For more ideas, see our guide to sensory-friendly kids haircuts.

Discuss Signs of Distress Ahead of Time

Tell the stylist about any signs you know that show your child is becoming anxious. Maybe it’s tension in the shoulders, covering their ears, pulling away, or becoming stiff. Some children get quiet and withdraw, but it’s not always a sign that they feel uncomfortable. Be clear with the stylist so they are aware of the signs. If your child becomes distressed, ask to pause. Talk about changing the approach, taking a break, or ending the visit if it makes sense. Our goal is for each child to feel secure. Stay flexible with your goals. Maybe you just get a small trim instead of the full style you wanted. You may need to divide the appointment into two visits. After, discuss your child’s needs and difficulties, so that everyone is more prepared for the next appointment. A flexible plan works best for the parent, the child, and the stylist.

Work With Us to Plan Your Visit to the Buford Salon

Before making the trip, call 678-971-2272 to discuss your child’s needs. Ask about appointment options, including booking during a quieter time. You can find salon information and booking access on our Buford location page. Our corporate guide to haircuts for kids with sensory differences offers more background on planning a supportive visit. Our salon serves families from Buford, Dacula, Suwanee, Lawrenceville, Sugar Hill, Rest Haven, Flowery Branch, Cumming, and Oakwood. We are at 3200 Woodward Crossing Blvd, Suite A-101, Buford, GA 30519, near the Mall of Georgia. New to our brand? Visit Pigtails & Crewcuts to learn about our children’s salons and services.