Getting Ready for Your Sensory Sensitive Appointment

How to Prep for Your In-Home Hair Appointment

Why This Matters

Haircuts can be overwhelming for many autistic children because of sensory overload, unfamiliar tools, unexpected touches, or changes in routine. But when we approach the experience with preparation, flexibility, and understanding, we create a space where they can feel safe and supported.

Whether this is your child’s first haircut or their tenth, preparation makes all the difference and every win, no matter how small, matters.

Before the Appointment: What to Do Ahead of Time

1. Start talking about it 1–3 days in advance, depending on your child’s understanding level.
2. Use a visual schedule or countdown calendar if your child benefits from visual cues.
3. Read a social story or create a simple photo sequence (e.g. “First we sit, then we spray, then we snip, then we’re done!”)
4. Let them explore the tools in a no-pressure way, touch the comb, try the cape, listen to the spray bottle.
5. Choose a comfort item or activity they can have during the haircut (tablet, toy, weighted blanket, etc.)
6. Let them help pick music or background sounds. Giving choices builds trust.

The Day Of: How to Set Up the Space

1. Choose a quiet, familiar room with good lighting and space to move around.
2. Set up a chair or seating option they’re used to, a beanbag, booster, wheelchair, etc.
3. Keep towels, wipes, and a change of shirt nearby in case they want to feel clean right after.
4. Prep sensory-friendly options like noise-reducing headphones, fidget items, or chew necklaces.
5. Have their favorite comfort object visible and accessible.

During the Appointment: How to Support Your Child

1. Let your stylist take their time. Rushing = stress.
2. Model calm behavior and reassure your child with short, soft phrases: “You’re doing great.” / “Just one more snip.” / “We’re almost done.”
3. Use a first-then structure: “First haircut, then Bluey.”
4. Offer deep pressure hugs or gentle squeezes if that helps regulate them.

Need a Visual Schedule, Countdown Calendar, or Social Story?

Every child is different and sometimes, preparing for a haircut means more than just setting the appointment. If your child would benefit from a visual schedule, countdown calendar, or a custom social story to help them know what to expect, I’m happy to help. Just let me know when booking, and I’ll create a tool tailored to your child’s needs.

I also offer pre-consult visits, where I come by to say hello and let your child explore the tools and environment at their own pace. No cutting necessary, this visit is all about getting comfortable with me, my tools, and the idea of a haircut. It’s especially helpful for kids who need a little more time to warm up or who have had tough experiences in the past.

Because at Shear Comfort, we’re not just doing hair, we’re building trust. 

Final Tips & Encouragement

You’re not doing it wrong if it’s hard. You’re doing it right by showing up with care.

Every child is different. Some days might be tough. Some might surprise you. But what matters most is that your child feels seen, safe, and loved, you’re giving them exactly that.