Guide to Barbershop Visit

ABA 360’s guide to barbershop visits helps children with autism feel more comfortable. Tips for stress-free and positive haircut experiences.

BEFORE THE VISIT

Research “autism-friendly barbers” in your area
Ask for an appointment at a time when the barbershop is least busy
Ask if your barbershop offers noise-canceling headphones, fidgets, or other strategies for calming kids during haircuts
If the sounds of razors or other electric tools bother your child, request a “scissor-only” cut
Prepare a bag of preferred toys/activities to take on the visit
Identify possible triggers for your child and make a plan for how they will be addressed
Prepare any visual supports you may be using
Read a social story with your child

Use visual supports
Utilize reinforcers consistently throughout the visit (don’t wait until things start going wrong!)
Save some reinforcers for later in the visit (such as a special reinforcer for the least-preferred parts of the haircut)
Request provider to explain what they are doing before they do it
Provide opportunities for a break if your child requests it