1. How to help your baby's first haircut go smoothly
2. How to alleviate first baby haircut fears
3. You hate your baby's first haircut? Don’t worry
1. How to help your baby's first haircut go smoothly
‘My son was cautious of anything “new” so for his first haircut I took him to a special children’s salon where he got to sit in a racing car and watch Peppa Pig on the screen in front of him,’ says mum, Cheryl. ‘He didn’t love it but there was enough distraction to keep him sitting there for just long enough, plus we got a photo and certificate, which was a nice keepsake.’
Children’s salons are great at making a scary or boring task like a baby's first haircut into a treat, but if you don’t have one near you, try to make the event into something special yourself. Maybe promise them a special treat afterwards, or give them a new book to look at while they’re getting their trim.
2. How to alleviate first baby haircut fears
‘I always had a mobile hairdresser come to the house to cut mine and my husband’s hair, and I think that’s one reason I never had a problem getting Bella’s hair cut,’ says mum, Terri. ‘She was used to the hairdresser, plus things like the noise of the hairdryer, and it was actually her that asked to get her haircut!’
Familiarity can help with a baby’s first haircut; consider having a mobile hairdresser come to do your hair a few times before they cut your child’s, or maybe take your little one to the salon - ideally at a quiet time - so it’s a place they know and are used to for when it's time for their first haircut.
'Playing’ hairdressers with your baby could also help, as it introduces them to the idea and feel of someone touching their hair.
3. You hate your baby's first haircut? Don’t worry
Babies can look surprisingly different post-haircut, so to minimise any surprises – for parent or baby – be very clear with the hairdresser if you only want a tiny trim. And of course, if they do get a little scissor-happy, try not to panic and remind yourself it will grow back in no time!
'I’ll never forget my son’s first haircut because I cried when he came home,’ says Iyesha. ‘His curls were gone and he looked so different. I was so annoyed with my husband for letting them take so much off, but in hindsight, I think I just wanted him to stay a “baby” for a bit longer.’
Ultimately haircuts can be a bit daunting for little ones so practice lots of patience and know that, even if it takes time, you will get there eventually. Good luck!
For more advice on other milestones, discover our range of articles at the Parenting Community section of the WaterWipes website. Articles include: