About Sweetmama Editor
Nadine Silverthorne’s love of journaling began in Grade One with the entry, “I am the greatest dancer!” Two babies (and countless diaper changes) later, she has found her home away from home as editor of SweetMama. Don’t miss her humorous bi-weekly accounts of the joys and pains of working while raising them fabulous.
What to Know Before a Kids' Salon Haircut
silver spoons: kids' haircuts canada
(Jan.10.11)
Kid hair seems to grow twice as fast as adult hair — or is it just me? Time to add "haircuts" to the list of January organization to-dos. After the school photos made it really clear that editors should not attempt children's haircuts (again), we ventured to Melonheads' new location on the Danforth (they have locations across the GTA and in Ottawa, Calgary and Vancouver too) to fix the error of my ways with scissors.
Featuring a plethora of seats that look appealing to kids, a big screen TV tuned to Treehouse, a cotton candy machine, helium balloons... wait, where was I going with this? Oh right, our visit to Melonheads was like the amusement park of hair cutting spots. The distractions meant the kids came out looking spectacular (and completely sugared up).
I know many parents have questions about getting their child's haircut for the first time. Thankfully, Hilary Chan-Kent of Melonheads was available to give me the secrets to making your child's visit to the salon a smooth one.
- Visit a kid-friendly space designed to take the fear out of getting a haircut. With a specialty in children's hair care, cuts will go by faster and smoother.
- Help your child into his/her seat, introduce him/her to the stylist and stay nearby. If all else fails, direct their attention to the TV, read a book or play with a toy!
- Does your child’s hair appear wispy, unruly or straggly, no matter how much you try to tame it? It’s time for a haircut! Unless your kid’s going for the long bangs — Justin Bieber look, of course.
- Don’t chastise your child and don’t try to assist with the process, for example combing your child’s hair.
- If your child likes having his/her picture taken, bring a camera. Support your stylist, relax and try to make it fun.
A Melonheads' haircut will set you back $20-$21, but this is one of those "don't try this at home" areas where you'll be glad you spent the dough. (Have I taught you nothing?) Toronto mamas might also consider the fabulous Haircuts on Wheels (yes, she comes right to you!) or Little Tots in the Beach.
Got a great kids' hair salon in your city or town? Let us know in the comments below!