Some haircuts are easy. Some aren’t.

For kids with autism, sensory sensitivities, anxiety, or other disabilities, a simple trim can feel… well, overwhelming. For our family right now? A permacath in the chest makes hairwashing impossible, so I asked my awesome/fancy hairdresser to do a haircut and hair wash — because, honestly, all of the above.

And it made me think: how many times do we have to have this awkward conversation at the hairdresser? What training does the industry actually have? And if there was a real call for allyship, wouldn’t it start here, in the salon? Because who spills their guts anywhere else? Hairdressers are the safest place.

So here’s a little guide, straight from our chair, on how to make a haircut calm, kind, and inclusive.

1. Talk to the Person

Speak to them, not about them.
Ask simple questions:
- “Is it okay if I touch your hair now?”
- “Do you want the clippers or scissors?”
- “Do you need a break?”
Even non-verbal responses matter, respect still lands.

2. Kindness Over Complexity

No need for baby talk or over-explaining.
Patience without pity.
Calm without judgement.
Respect without spectacle.

3. Show Tools Before Using Them

Clippers, scissors, combs, let them see, hear, touch if they want.
Explain what you’re about to do.
One step at a time.

4. Offer Breaks & Space

Don’t assume a meltdown or pause is a failure.
Let them move, adjust, or take a break without fanfare.

5. Be Mindful of Senses

Noise: clippers and dryers can be overwhelming.
Smells: strong products may trigger sensitivities.
Seating: let them choose what’s comfortable.

6. To Parents & Carers

You’re not “that family.”
You’re not overreacting.
You’re not doing it wrong.
Advocacy is hard work — you’re doing it right.

7. A Good Haircut is More Than Style

Haircuts are nice, a good experience is everything.
Treat kids with respect, patience, and dignity.
These small acts of kindness can change whether a family ever comes back.

Hairdressers, salon owners, stylists — who do we need to talk to about training, allyship, and making haircuts kinder for all kids?
Tag them. Share this. Let’s get the conversation happening where it matters — in the salon chair.
Simone
ps - These images are part of our inclusive stock library, created to show real moments, not inspiration porn. This is what inclusion can look like. ✂️💛

Dear Hairdressers: Help Us Get Our Kids’ Hair Cut