As we celebrate Children’s Day, it’s the perfect time to focus on the unique needs of our little wonders! Children, with their boundless energy and endearing unpredictability, can make haircut appointments both delightful and challenging. To keep you and the tiny tots at ease, Vidhi Arya from Professional Beauty India brings you simple tips on how to handle kids during haircut appointments.
With all the energy and inhibitions kids have, a haircut appointment with kids can be fun as well as challenging. With short attention spans and a lack of trust in new people, kids can feel really anxious during haircuts. So, there’s a lot of patience and tact required to approach these appointments.
Here are some practical tips to make the experience smoother for both you and the child:
Ensure that the Environment is Kid-Friendly
If your salon caters to little kids, it’s essential to transform it into a welcoming space for them. You can add children-friendly elements to a part of your salon, such as toys, vibrant décor, or play areas. If a child feels comfortable in the salon, they will easily sail through the appointment.
Tip: Keep a designated “kids’ corner” with books and toys to entertain them while they wait.
You Need to be Patient and Friendly
Children can become really nervous and fidgety, so you should be friendly and warm with them. You must greet them with a smile and use a calm and reassuring voice. Before you begin with the appointment, engage with them a little, talk to them about your favourites, and ensure they ease in with you.
Tip: Use language they understand and offer positive reinforcement throughout the appointment, such as, “You’re doing such a great job sitting still!”
Give Them Easy-to-follow Instructions
It can get difficult for kids to follow all instructions and sit still at all times. You must give them clear instructions in a composed manner. For instance, “Can you look at the duck on the wall?” or “Let’s play a game where we don’t move until I say ‘go.’”
Tip: Make sure your instructions are age-appropriate and fun.
Offer Them Some Distractions
Distractions can be lifesavers when working with kids. Interactive toys, music, or allowing the child to hold a small, safe mirror can help keep them occupied. If possible, give them something soft to squeeze if they feel restless.
Tip: Consider offering a lollipop or small treat after the haircut as an incentive for good behaviour.
Communicate with Their Parents
Kids may not be fully capable of communicating their needs to you. Before the appointment, it’s always advisable to have a quick chat with the parents to understand the child’s needs and sensitivities. They are the best guides on how to handle kids during appointments.
Tip: Involve the parents in the process by asking for tips that work for them at home or letting them help calm the child if necessary.
Keep The Appointments Short
Children’s attention spans are limited, so it’s important to work efficiently. Plan your session in a way that minimises waiting and keeps things moving at a reasonable pace.
Tip: Ask the parents to schedule appointments during a time of day when the child is typically well-rested and not hungry.
Please Be Prepared for Surprises
Children can be unpredictable, so be prepared for sudden changes in behaviour or sudden activity. Whether it’s sudden tears or excitement, stay calm and handle each situation as it arises. When it comes to how to handle kids, having a sense of humour and a relaxed demeanour goes a long way.
Tip: Always have backup strategies like calling the parent over or taking a brief break if needed.
Use Child-Friendly Products
Ensure that the hair products and tools you’re using are safe for children. Choose gentle, tear-free products and avoid anything that might cause discomfort or irritation.
Tip: Highlight this safety feature to parents, as they’ll appreciate the extra care.