Tips for Children in the Salon

“Let's talk KIDDOS! What do you do specifically for children in your salon?”

Going to the salon can be a little overwhelming for young children. A lot of unfamiliar devices, noises, and faces can make it hard for parents and guardians to drag their kids to the salon, even when they are in desperate need of a haircut before the school year kicks off. That’s why Marlo Beauty Supply asked pros for tips and tricks to get kids new-school-year-savvy. The Marlo Beauty Facebook community stepped up to answer the question: “Let's talk KIDDOS! What do you do specifically for children in your salon?” Here are the most popular tips and tricks to keeps things “trauma and drama free”: 

 

Make kids and parents comfortable

Beauty professionals are well-versed in the customer service side of things when it comes to adult clients. But what do you do when your client is squirming in your chair, too young to read magazines, or lacks the conversation skills to talk about their upcoming week? No need to fear - seasoned experts make sure to literally and figuratively get down on the child’s level to make sure they are aware of what the haircutting or nail polishing process will entail. Crouching down to initially talk to children, even sitting on the ground, can help them see what you are doing eye-to-eye. Several pros commented that they make sure kids know what to expect by showing them the painless nature of their clippers, allowing them to rummage through products and accessories at their station, and/or putting a “superhero” cape around their shoulders. 

Several pros also mentioned checking in with the child’s parents before offering candy, add-onservices, electronic devices, etc. This way, not only is the child content in the experience, but their parent or guardian walks away feeling confident in the service provider’s process. Some pros even recommended that parents get a salon service done before their child, so that their child can see that there’s nothing to worry about from the get-go. 

 

Treat them like a VIP

Just as you would offer your adult clients a beverage before you begin your service, it’s helpful to give kids a treat when they plop down in your chair. Pros commented that they keep an emergency stash of snacks and treats (e.g. lollipops, Dum Dum suckers, candies, and freezer pops) in the salon to offer to children. Some stylists give treats to their young clients before the service as a bribe or source of comfort, while others offer them as a reward for behaving throughout the service. Other popular incentives for good behavior include prize boxes, treasure chests, and goodie bags. You can also stock up on hair cut certificates to reward them with after a successful time in your chair. Just make sure to ask the parent or guardian’s permission before you send them home with a sugar rush!
 

Keep them distracted

One of the most common answers was to keep kids content with a tablet or phone so they could watch videos, listen to music, or play games while they get their service done. To keep kids from fidgeting, others suggested giving them toys, letting them play with spray bottles, and asking them to sing a song or recite the alphabet. Several hair stylists commented that they have the child hold a comb under their chin, playing a game to see how long they can keep it there so that they stay still in their chair and keep their head down. 

 

Add some flair

With consent from parents or guardians, pros will make the child’s experience fun by adding temporary spray in colors, using clips and barrettes, incorporating braids and curls, or adding products to create spikes or a slick look to their client’s hair. This tip not only makes the experience positive and special, but allows for a little bit of the child’s personality to shine through as they prepare for the school year ahead. Others commented that they like to give complimentary mini manicures to their regular clients’ children after they get their service done. Quick dry nail polish works well for curious hands, but also keeps kids from touching everything on your work station! 

If you’re struggling to find ways to handle children in your salon, follow the advice of your fellow pros. Communicate with them and their parent/ guardian, offer them some goodies, keep them distracted with entertainment, and add something extra for their new style. 
 

A range of beauty professionals, salon owners and gurus participated in the #MarloAsks poll, resulting in a variety of helpful tips about children in the salon. 

Look for future #MarloAsks polls on social media! 

Featured Products to help with a child's visit to the Salon 

Colorful capes are perfect for children to make them feel special and keep them amused. It also helps to keep as much hair off of them as children can be more figety with each snip of your shears! 

Temporary fashion colors are an excellent add-on to any child's service. Hair color sprays are a quick, easy and non-permanent way to make a child happy - the perfect finishing touch to a successful salon trip!