How does your child handle haircuts? Has it changed over time? Maybe they don't love it, but have just gotten used to it? My son, whose hair I keep very short, got his first haircut as a one-year-old—he is now 13. Back when he was little, it was really tough for him (and for me) to get his hair snipped. There were so many things that bothered him about the process: the sitting still, wearing a cape, the fallen hair itching his skin, the sound of the buzzer so close to his ears, etc. I wondered if it would ever get easier.
Over the years the progress was slow. At times, I wanted to pull my own hair out, but we kept at it. Every four weeks, he would have his appointment, and, well, it eventually got easier. As he got older, I noticed him getting a little more tolerant. I no longer have to bring a change of clothes—he wears a cape! While I can tell that the fallen hair and the buzzer still make him feel a little uncomfortable, he has learned to deal with it.
In our case, consistency was a major factor in him becoming more tolerant. This was not something that was going away—it was part of his life. I'll tell him the day he has an appointment so he can start thinking about it. I also promise him a small reward (something small like a special snack that he doesn't get to have often). This is very motivating for him. But the most important thing you can do is find the right person to give the haircut. You may have to try out a few people or places until you find someone who clicks with your child.
We have been lucky to have the same wonderful person, Diane, all these years (yup, from one to 13). If she moves to a new shop, we go with her. Currently she work at Doodle Doo's on Christopher Street. Her patience and understanding have no doubt contributed to the the changes we have witnessed. Diane counts with him, sings with him and does whatever it takes.
Haircuts for us have gone from 40 minutes of crying and moving around to 15 minutes of quietly sitting still. Again, it did not happen overnight. If your child struggles, I promise you it can get better. I know how very stressful haircuts can be for kids and parents alike. My suggestions are to be consistent, find a motivational reward, find the right person and, as always, try to stay calm.
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