What To Expect At Your Child’s First Haircut: A Parent’s Checklist
Robb Hanlon
Your child’s first haircut is a big milestone. For many parents, it can also be a little nerve-wracking.
As a master barber of 30+ years, I’ve come to learn that most kids aren’t scared of haircuts—they’re scared of what’s unfamiliar. With the right preparation, environment, and tools, you can help turn that first haircut into a fun, positive memory for both of you.
Here’s exactly what to expect—and what to bring—with our Parent’s First Haircut Checklist.
✅ 1. Choose a Kid-Friendly Barbershop or Salon
Not every shop is created equal when it comes to working with children. We recommend booking with a shop that is Kids Haircut Certified and/or uses the Imagination Booster System.
These professionals are trained to:
Understand children’s behavior
Create calming, playful environments
Use tools designed specifically for comfort and fun
👉 Check out our FREE App to find certified shops and barbers near you!
🎒 2. What to Bring With You
Preparation is key to a smooth first haircut. Here’s what we suggest packing:
Favorite snacks (easy-to-grab, low-mess)
A comfort item or toy
A fully charged tablet or phone to play their favorite show and/or games
A book they love or coloring pages for distraction
Keeping their hands busy (and bellies full) helps them stay calm and entertained throughout the process.
🚒 3. What Happens During the Haircut
At Kids’ Haircut Certified shops, here’s what the experience looks like:
Your barber will hand you the Fire Chief Cape that fits like a jacket—similar to a traditional cape, but less intimidating and overwhelming.
It’s easy to snap on and designed for play—so they feel like they’re dressing up, not being restrained.
Next, your child will sit in a kid-safe Fire Chief Booster Seat with a built-in tray that fits:
Tablets or phones (securely propped up)
Books, crayons, toys, or snacks
It’s built for comfort and distraction so your little one can relax and stay entertained during their haircut.
✨ Bonus Tips:
Arrive a few minutes early so your child can explore and get comfortable.
Don’t stress if they’re a little anxious or unsure—this is all part of the process.
Celebrate after! A small treat, sticker, or a high five can go a long way!
🎉 Try Our First Haircut Kit at Home!
Want to introduce your child to haircuts before you book their first haircut appointment?
Our First Haircut Kit is designed to build familiarity, reduce fear, and make haircuts fun from the very start.
It includes:
Fire Chief Hair Cape (for dress-up play)
Child-safe comb (for playful practice)
Coloring pages & crayons
“I Was Brave For My First Haircut” Board Book and First Haircut Certificate
✨ A perfect gift for baby showers, first birthdays, or barbershop retail displays!
