Best hairdresser tips for parents of a child with Down syndrome – Real parent tips

With children now back-to-school, many families are booking those all-important trims and tidy-ups – but we know haircuts aren’t always straightforward, especially for our little ones. 

This week, parents in our community shared their top tips for making haircuts easier – whether that’s at the salon, at home or even while little ones are fast asleep! Here’s a round-up of ideas, experiences and advice from families who’ve been there:

1. Stick with the same barber or hairdresser

Familiar faces and spaces make a big difference. Parents told us how helpful it was to keep going to the same barber, especially one who is calm, patient and experienced with children who have additional needs. 

One parent shared: 

“We always go to the same barber at a quiet time. I prepare [E.] with photos of the chair and salon, and we model haircuts at home by pretending with finger scissors and making the buzzing sound. It’s taken time, but now he usually manages his haircut with a smile.”

2. Try home haircuts (sometimes even while asleep!)

 Several parents said haircuts at home worked better than the barbers. Some even trim their child’s hair while they’re asleep to avoid the stress of a salon trip. 

“We wait until our son is asleep and the hairdresser comes round. It’s not conventional, but it takes the pressure off him and us.”

3. Distractions, rewards and routines

 Snacks, music, iPads, nursery rhymes – distractions were a lifesaver for many. Routines and rewards also help children know what to expect and what comes after. 

“We use counting to get through hair washing and cutting – 5 cups of water to rinse, 10 snips on each side, then chocolate buttons at the end. It gives [M.] something predictable to focus on.” 

“There’s always McDonald’s afterwards – it’s become part of the routine.”

Start early and build up gradually

 Some parents recommend introducing the idea of haircuts long before they’re needed – by visiting the salon, sitting in the chair or playing ‘hairdressers’ at home. 

“I used to take [L.] with me when I had my hair done. She’d sit in the chair for a few minutes and we’d pop in between appointments just so she got used to the environment. It made a huge difference when it was her turn.”

4. Look for SEN-friendly options

Specialist barbers and hairdressers who understand sensory sensitivities can be a game-changer. 

“We go to a local salon that offers SEN sessions on Sundays. They have quiet clippers, TV screens, and even do home visits if needed.”

Embrace patience (and praise!)

Haircuts can be emotional and tiring – for both children and parents. Families said patience, understanding and lots of praise really do pay off. 

“The first few times [J.] screamed and cried the whole way through. Our barber was unfazed and just carried on kindly. Now, with lots of preparation and repeating the same phrases, he still cries a bit, but he gets through it and is immediately happy afterwards.” 

Final thought: 

Haircuts can be one of those small everyday things that feel like a big hurdle. Every child is different, and what works for one family might not work for another. But whether it’s the right barber, clever routines, patient practice or home haircuts, these parent-tested tips show there are many ways to make the process easier. 

You’re not alone if haircuts are tricky – lots of families in our community are figuring it out too. 

👉 Have a tip of your own to share? Join our conversation each week in our private Facebook groups, where every Tuesday we invite parents to swap experiences in our #TopTipsTuesday thread. Your insight could be just what another family needs to hear.