Haircuts can be a challenging experience for some children, especially those with autism. The meeting discussed various strategies to make this process smoother and less stressful. 

Preparation and Familiarization: 

Introduce Sounds and Sensations: Gradually expose children to the sounds and sensations of a haircut. Let them hear the buzzer in a relaxed environment and feel it on their skin weeks before the actual haircut.  

Visit the Salon in Advance: Take the child to the salon beforehand to meet the hairstylist and familiarize themselves with the environment. This helps reduce anxiety on the actual day.  

Communication and Expectations: 

Explain the Process: Talk to the child about what will happen during the haircut. Show them the tools and explain their use to avoid surprises.  

Visual Cues for Timing: Use visual cues, like hair length reaching the ears or eyebrows, to help the child understand when it's time for a haircut.  

Managing Anxiety and Meltdowns: 

Offer Rewards: Plan a high-value reward, such as a trip to the park or ice cream, after the haircut to motivate the child and make the experience more positive.  

Handle Unexpected Changes: If the regular hairstylist is unavailable, take extra time to introduce the new person or reschedule if necessary.  

Special Considerations for Children with Autism: 

Advance Notice: Always inform the child about any changes in routine well in advance. If a new location is involved, visit it beforehand or show pictures to make it less unfamiliar.  

Encouragement and Redirection: Use encouragement and redirection to help the child cope with unexpected changes. Planning and clear communication are crucial for their comfort.