Your child’s kids first haircut is a milestone — exciting for parents, sometimes scary for little ones. Whether your toddler is 12 months old or approaching their third birthday, knowing when and how to handle the kids first haircut can make the experience positive for everyone.
At Ludmi Barber in Davie, FL, we’ve been giving kids their first haircuts for over 25 years. We’ve seen every reaction — from giggles to tears — and we know exactly how to make it a smooth experience. Here’s everything you need to know.
When Should You Schedule Your Kids First Haircut?
There’s no universal “right age” for a kids first haircut. Every child is different. Here are some signs it might be time:
- Hair is in their eyes — If bangs are blocking their vision, it’s time for at least a trim
- Hair covers their ears — Especially in hot Florida weather, keeping hair manageable helps
- Hair is getting tangled easily — Long, fine toddler hair can get matted quickly
- They’re around 12-18 months — Most kids are ready for their first trim between their first and second birthdays
10 Tips for a Successful Kids First Haircut
1. Choose the Right Barber
Not all barbers have experience with young children. Look for a family-friendly barber shop that specifically welcomes kids. At Ludmi Barber, kids haircuts are one of our specialties — we understand the patience and gentle approach young children need.
2. Pick the Right Time of Day
Schedule the appointment when your child is at their best — usually mid-morning after they’ve eaten and had a good night’s sleep. Avoid nap time, meal times, or late afternoon when kids tend to be cranky.
3. Talk About It Beforehand
A few days before the appointment, start talking positively about haircuts. Explain what will happen in simple terms: “A nice person is going to make your hair look cool with special scissors.” You can even pretend to cut their hair with your fingers so the motion feels familiar.
4. Bring a Comfort Item
A favorite toy, stuffed animal, or tablet can work wonders for keeping little ones calm. Some kids do better with a snack. Bring whatever helps your child feel secure in new situations.
5. Consider a Practice Visit
If your child is particularly nervous, visit the barber shop a day or two before the actual appointment. Let them see the space, hear the clippers from a distance, and meet the barber. Familiarity reduces anxiety.
6. Let Them Sit on Your Lap
Many barbers are happy to let a parent hold their child during the haircut. This provides comfort and security. At Ludmi Barber, parents are always welcome to hold their child throughout the entire process.
7. Don’t Force It
If your child is having a complete meltdown, it’s okay to stop and try again another day. Forcing a haircut can create a negative association that lasts for years. A good barber will understand and won’t pressure you.
8. Keep It Short (the Appointment, Not Just the Hair)
Toddlers have short attention spans. A quick, efficient trim is better than a complicated style. You can always get more creative as they get older and more comfortable in the chair.
9. Celebrate Afterward
Make the kids first haircut a positive memory. Take photos before and after, clap and cheer when it’s done, and maybe get ice cream on the way home. Positive reinforcement makes the next haircut easier.
10. Save a Lock of Hair
This is a once-in-a-lifetime moment. Ask the barber to save a small lock of hair as a keepsake. Many parents put it in a baby book or small envelope with the date.
What Kids First Haircut Style Should You Choose?
For a first haircut, keep it simple. Here are age-appropriate style suggestions:
Ages 1-2: Simple Trim
Just clean up around the ears and bangs. No need for a specific style at this age. The goal is a positive experience, not a perfect cut.
Ages 2-4: Basic Cut
A simple, even cut all around works great. Some boys are ready for a short sides/longer top look. Follow the child’s personality.
Ages 4-6: First Real Style
Now you can introduce actual styles — a kids fade, a side part, or a textured crop. Most kids this age can sit still for 10-15 minutes.
Ages 7+: Any Style
By this age, kids often have their own preferences. Let them look at photos and choose. Fades, tapers, and teen-friendly styles are all fair game.
What to Expect During Your Kids First Haircut Visit
Here’s a typical kids first haircut experience at a family barber shop:
- Welcome and warm-up — The barber greets your child and lets them get comfortable. No rushing.
- Cape time — A cape goes on. Some kids don’t like this; that’s okay. We can work without it if needed.
- Spraying — A light mist of water to dampen the hair. We always show kids the spray bottle first so they’re not surprised.
- Cutting — Scissors first for younger kids (less noise than clippers). The barber works quickly but carefully.
- Finishing touches — A quick check, cleanup around the neck, and done. The whole process takes 10-15 minutes for small children.
“I always let the child set the pace. Some kids need a minute to warm up, some jump right in. The most important thing is that they feel safe. If we make the kids first haircut a good experience, they’ll look forward to coming back.” — Ludmi, Owner
How Much Does a Kids First Haircut Cost?
At Ludmi Barber, all services including kids haircuts are $35. This includes the cut, styling, and cleanup. We take the same care with a toddler’s first trim as we do with an adult fade.
Kids First Haircut: Barber Shop or Kids Salon?
For your kids first haircut, kids-specific salons with TVs and toy chairs can be fun, but they’re not always the best option. Here’s why many parents in Davie choose a traditional barber shop like Ludmi Barber:
- Real expertise — A barber with decades of experience can handle any situation, any hair type
- Calm environment — Less overstimulation than flashy kids salons; some children actually do better in a quieter setting
- Bilingual service — At Ludmi Barber, we speak both English and Spanish (Se habla Español), which helps kids who are more comfortable in Spanish
- Building a relationship — When your child sees the same barber every time, trust builds naturally
- No growing out — Your child can keep coming to the same barber as they grow up, from first trim to teenage fades
Book Your Child’s Haircut
Patient, kid-friendly haircuts at Ludmi Barber in Davie, FL. 25+ years of experience with children of all ages.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I stay with my child during the haircut?
Absolutely. Parents are always welcome to stay, hold their child, and be part of the experience at Ludmi Barber.
What if my child cries?
It happens and it’s completely normal. Our barbers are experienced with nervous kids and know how to work efficiently while keeping your child as comfortable as possible. If it’s too much, we can always pause and try again.
Do you take walk-ins for kids haircuts?
Yes, walk-ins are always welcome at Ludmi Barber. However, if your child does better with a predictable schedule, we recommend booking an appointment so there’s no waiting.
What age do you recommend for a kids first haircut?
There’s no wrong age. Most kids get their first trim between 12-18 months, but some come earlier or later. Whenever your child’s hair needs attention, we’re ready.
Related Services
- Kids Haircut — Patient, gentle cuts for all ages
- Kids Fade — Cool fade styles for older kids
- Teen Haircut — Trendy styles for teenagers
- All Kids Services — See our full kids menu
- Men’s Haircuts — Dad can get a cut too while you’re here