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[title]Salons with cool perks for first-timers
Snippet’s Mini-Cuts The First Cut Package starts with a DVD recording of the event, then hair locks are placed in a keepsake box. Little ones go home with a personalized certificate and a bottle of Weep No More shampoo. Kids’ up-dos, braiding and Missy Manicures are also available. $25. 2154 N Clybourn Ave (773-755-1000) and other locations.
Rock Candy Salon & Spa Chicago At this North Side kids’ spot, the My First Haircut package includes a keepsake lock of hair, a certificate and a photo. Older sibs will want to stick around for kiddo spa services such as mani-pedis for boys (with a soak in green slime) and girls. Hair and spa services are available for adults, too. $26. 4141 N Lincoln Ave (773-883-3000).
Sweet & Sassy Salon & Spa Opt for the Baby’s First Cut Package, which includes a certificate, lollipop and treat pouch—and go for big-girl services such as ear piercing and mani-pedis as they grow. The salon also offers kids’ up-dos, braiding and parties. $19. 3041 Butterfield Rd, Oak Brook (630-706-4411).
Rock Hair Scissors Wee ones will hop right into a race car, train or buggy chair—once they’re done checking out the jungle mural and playing with the provided toys. The first-timer’s package includes a photo, personalized certificate, keepsake comb-and-mirror set and strands of hair. $28. 5508 W Devon Ave (773-774-1909).
Pigtails and Crewcuts Your kids might mistake this salon for a playroom with all of its toys, trains, movies and video games. Cuts happen in car or airplane chairs, and kids get to choose a fruit-scented, tearless shampoo. Parents get a certificate, photo and lock of hair to take home. Grown-up cuts are available, too. $25. Glen Town Center, 2660 Navy Blvd, Glenview (847-486-0700). See website for other area locations.
Five tips from Rock Hair Scissors proprietor Idania Santiago
1 Check out the salon beforehand. “Go on the website, have the kids look at the colorful pictures and get them excited about going,” Santiago says. “Or stop by and look around, even if you’re not there for an appointment.”
2 Bring a change of clothes. “A lot of kids don’t like to put the cape on. They get scared when they see a stranger coming at them with it,” Santiago says. If kids get covered with hair, a fresh shirt will prevent the itchies.
3 Bring a comfort item. “We encourage parents to bring something their kid is comfortable with, like a toy or a favorite movie, to help them feel more at home.” (Each Rock Hair Scissors station is equipped with a DVD player.)
4 Never use the word cut. “It’s better to say styling or playing with your hair—use words that won’t get them scared.”
5 Don’t force it. “If kids are cranky, sick or it’s right before nap time, it’s going to be a horrible experience for everyone,” Santiago says. “Just reschedule for another day.”