7 Tips for making toddler’s haircut fun and easy

7 Tips for making toddler’s haircut fun and easy

I didn’t even think of getting my son’s hair cut when his hair started getting in his eyes and the side curls over his ears started to look like wings. I thought it was adorable. But I knew it was time when people kept saying “what’s her name?” or “what a beautiful little girl!” There is no specific age at which the first haircut happens. Babies as young as 2 months make their first visit to the salon and some don’t until they’re 2 years. You’ll know when it’s time. And when you do, here are 7 tips for making toddler’s haircut fun and easy!

  1. Prepare (yourself) and your child. This is a totally new experience for them, so be prepared for tears!  It can help to bring your child to your own haircut appointment so they can see what to expect. Or, you can play “haircut” at home by sitting them in front of a mirror and pinning a towel around their shoulders. Gently spritz warm water on their hair and “trim” with toy scissors or even using your hands as the scissors. Try letting them give you a “cut” too.
  2. Take them to a salon that specializes in children’s haircuts. They should be equipped with all sorts of fun things to keep your child happily distracted – toys, kids movies/shows, a fun atmosphere, and most importantly, stylists that specialize in working with children. Also, be sure to pick a time that is good for your child.
  3. Relax! If you are overly emotional or nervous, your child will pick up on it.
  4. Have your child sit on your lap. Sometimes, no matter how many bells and whistles are around to distract your child, they may still want nothing to do with the event. But if you join in, they may have an easier time obliging. Try wearing a cape too! A little extra comfort may be all they need.
  5. Use fun nicknames for the equipment. Blowdryers and hair clippers can be noisy, and scary! Using funny names like “Mr. Buzz” for the clippers and “wind machine” for the blowdryer can help them be less afraid.
  6. Bring a snack. Non-sticky food works best like puffs or crackers or carrot sticks. It can make all the difference between squirming and contently sitting.
  7. Focus on the experience, and not the perfect haircut. My son could have had a cleaner first haircut, but I knew he would freak out at the hair clippers, so we chose to save that for the next time. It’s best to keep the experience all-around positive.

These tips can work well for haircuts beyond the first too! I hope you find these helpful and your child has a great haircut experience next time!

If you’re thinking it’s time to get your child’s first haircut, head down to Manta’s Cuts, Kids Salon in Wilmington!

7 Tips for making toddler’s haircut fun and easy

I'm Erika and I am a maternity, newborn, and family photographer based near Wilmington, NC. I'm also a mom to two cutie boys, lover of backyard gardening, candles, chocolate and Amazon Prime.

Search Posts by Category

If you’ve got a new arrival on the way, don’t forget to get your newborn session on the books! I come to you, so it’s hassle free in those first few crazy days. You don’t want to miss out on saving those moments that all-too-often get lost into the blur of being a new parent. ✨
“When all is said and done I’d never count the cost, it’s worth all that’s lost, just to see you smile.” -Tim McGraw
My mentoring program is open & ready to get you on your way to being the kind of photographer you’ve been dreaming about!! DM me, and let’s get started; I can’t wait! ♥️✨
“Received our pictures and to say we are obsessed is an understatement. Erika did a wonderful job. We will definitely be using her again, next time we are in Wilmington!” -Brice A. ♥️
Happy MONDAY! I hope you can find time for yourself this week; whether it’s a Starbucks run or an everything-shower or some time outside. You deserve it, and if you need it, I hope you take it!
Feel like sharing the love this gift-giving season? Gift certificates are available on my website!!! ⁠
⁠
For those who already seem to have it all, they truly do make the perfect gift. What could be better than an afternoon with loved ones, a day spent smiling and laughing, and the memories to keep forever?

Lifestyle Family Newborn Maternity Photography

Serving: WILMINGTON TOPSAIL ISLAND WRIGHTSVILLE BEACH KURE BEACH Hampstead
carolina beach Figure eight island oak island jacksonville sneads ferry

910.719.3633 hello@erikariggerphotography.com