The Forgotten Clients: How to Make Children’s Haircuts a Positive Experience

Children’s haircuts can be some of the most challenging appointments for stylists, yet they are often overlooked when it comes to creating a tailored, thoughtful experience. While adults have the language and patience to articulate their preferences, young clients bring their own set of needs—nervousness, wiggling, and, sometimes, tears. However, children are future loyal clients, and making their early salon experiences positive builds trust that can last a lifetime.

Understanding the Child Client

For many children, a haircut can feel overwhelming. The sound of scissors, clippers, or dryers, sitting still for an extended time, and the sensory overload of a busy salon can create stress. Understanding that these reactions are rooted in unfamiliarity and discomfort is key to approaching the service with care and patience.

The first goal? Make the salon feel safe.

Strategies to Create a Child-Friendly Experience

1. Start with the Right Welcome
A smile, a calm demeanor, and a simple greeting can ease nerves. Get down to their level—literally—by crouching to make eye contact and speaking directly to them. Ask their name and include them in the process:

• “What’s your favorite color? Let’s pick a cape in that color!”
  This small interaction shows the child that they’re seen and involved, which builds comfort.

2. Create a Distraction
Children have short attention spans, so distractions are your best ally. Consider:

• Placing kid-friendly books, small toys, or tablet stands at the stations.
• Offering cartoons or favorite shows on a screen in a designated children’s area.
• Having a fun, colorful cape or a “magic” spray bottle to capture their attention.

A little creativity keeps them occupied and makes the experience feel less like a chore.

3. Speak Their Language
Explain what you’re doing in a way that feels fun and non-threatening:

• “This is my magic comb—it helps make tangles disappear!”
• “This blow dryer sounds like a rocket ship, but it’s just making your hair dry and soft.”

Keeping your language lighthearted and engaging makes the experience feel more playful and less intimidating.

4. Adapt Your Technique
Flexibility is essential when working with young clients. They might fidget, squirm, or tilt their heads unexpectedly. Instead of forcing them to sit perfectly still, adjust to their movements:

• Work in sections that allow for quick breaks.
• Use techniques that require fewer tools or less time to minimize discomfort.
• For very young children, consider having them sit on a parent’s lap for reassurance.

5. Turn It into a Celebration
End the haircut on a high note with praise and positive reinforcement:

• “You did such a great job sitting still—look how amazing your hair looks!”
• Offer small rewards like stickers, lollipops, or a “First Haircut” certificate for younger children.

These small gestures turn the appointment into an accomplishment, leaving them excited to return.

Creating a Child-Friendly Salon Atmosphere

If children’s haircuts are a regular part of your clientele, consider dedicating a space in the salon just for them. Bright, colorful décor, smaller chairs, and playful elements make the environment feel more welcoming. A “kid’s corner” with activities for siblings waiting their turn can also make the visit smoother for families.

Winning Over Parents

Parents want haircuts to be quick, stress-free, and successful. Communicate clearly and confidently while showing patience with their children. Offering tips on maintaining their child’s hair—like detangling techniques or product recommendations—can also build trust and position you as a family-friendly expert.

Why It Matters

Children may be small clients, but their experiences in the salon have a big impact. A positive haircut builds trust, reduces future anxiety, and often turns families into loyal, returning clients. By creating an environment where children feel safe, happy, and celebrated, you’re not just cutting hair—you’re shaping their relationship with salons for years to come.

With the right approach, a child’s first haircut (or fiftieth) can be just as rewarding for the stylist as it is for the client.