Little Roots Studio

Little Roots Studio

Sensory-Friendly Kids Hair

Prepare for Your Visit

Setting Up for Success

A little preparation can make a big difference! Here's how to help your child feel comfortable and confident before their haircut.

Days Before

Preparing in the Days Before

Read Social Stories

Use picture books or create a simple story about going to the salon. "First we drive, then we go inside, then we sit in a special chair..."

Watch Videos

Show your child videos of other kids getting haircuts. We can send you a video of Carla working if it helps!

Show Photos of Our Space

Visit our "Our Space" page to see the salon layout. Familiarity reduces anxiety about the unknown.

Play "Haircut"

Practice at home with pretend haircuts on stuffed animals or dolls. Let your child be the stylist too!

Practice Sitting Still

Work up to sitting still for short periods while watching a favorite show. Start with 2-3 minutes.

Plan a Reward

Let your child know there's something to look forward to after — ice cream, park time, a small toy, etc.

What to Bring

Comfort Items Welcome!

Feel free to bring anything that helps your child feel comfortable. We have sensory tools available, but your child's own items may feel more familiar.

We Provide:

Noise-canceling headphones
Weighted lap pad
Fidget toys & spinners
Visual timers
Tablets with shows & games
Lollipops (or alternative treats)
Cape options (light touch or none)

You're Welcome to Bring:

Their own headphones
Favorite stuffed animal or comfort object
Preferred snacks or treats
Tablet with their favorite shows loaded
Chew necklace or oral sensory tools
Their own fidget toys
A photo of the haircut style they want
Day Of

Tips for Appointment Day

Timing Matters

Schedule when your child is usually well-rested
Avoid right before nap time or meal time
Morning appointments often work best
Allow extra travel time so you're not rushed

Getting Ready

Dress in comfortable, easy-to-clean clothes
Avoid favorite shirts (hair can be itchy!)
Use simple language: "We're going to see Carla for a haircut"
Stay calm — kids pick up on our anxiety!

During the Visit

Let Carla lead the interaction at first
It's OK to hold their hand or have them on your lap
Celebrate small wins ("You're doing great!")
If they need a break, we take a break

If Things Get Hard

Breaks are always OK — even long ones
We can stop and try again another day
Partial haircuts are fine — we finish next time
There's no judgment here, ever
Private Sensory Suite Option

Need the Calmest Experience?

For children who need extra support, ask about booking Carla's Private Sensory Suite.

What Makes It Different:

Private entrance — Walk directly from car to suite
Wait in car — Text when you arrive, we'll text when ready
No waiting room — Skip the lobby entirely
Complete privacy — Just you, your child, and Carla
Same space every time — Builds familiarity and routine
Controlled environment — You control lighting, sound, everything
Calm corner available — Break space if needed
Private exit — Leave directly when done

This Option is Ideal For:

First appointments for highly anxious children
Kids who've had traumatic haircut experiences
Children with autism who need predictable, controlled environments
Gradual exposure therapy (just visit the space — no haircut required!)
Any situation where minimal stimulation is essential
First Haircut?

Special Tips for First Timers

Consider a "practice visit" first — just come see the space, no haircut
Bring a sibling or friend who's had haircuts before
Start with just a trim — we can always do more later
Our First Haircut Package includes a certificate and keepsake lock of hair
Take photos to celebrate the milestone!
Baby's first haircut

Still Have Questions?

We're happy to chat before your visit to answer any questions, discuss your child's needs, or help you prepare.

Ready to Book?

Join our waitlist for grand opening and get priority booking!