One of the things we had to accomplish before Super D’s first day in kindergarten was to get a hair cut. For any child this can be a challenge, but for a child with autism it can be a horrifying experience. I never know what a trip for a haircut will bring.
We have been very fortunate. In the last 4 years I can count the number of bad haircuts we have had on one hand. The worst one we ever had happened when I attempted to save some money and cut his hair at home. We managed to get it cut, however, it ended up being a bad experience. Lets just say, I learned my lesson.
Early on, we would take Super D to a chain that specialized in children’s cuts. They had pedal cars and power wheels on pedestals for the kids to sit in while getting their hair cut. For a child like Super D who loves steering wheels, this was heaven. At first it worked well to distract him from what was going on. As time went on, the novelty wore off.
We have been lucky enough to find stylists who have worked with special needs children before. This makes a huge difference in the experience. Having someone who has an idea of what it takes to beat the sensory overload is critical.
This trip went very well. The lady who cut his hair had previous experience with children, which helped. She also had a very quiet pair of clippers, which is a prerequisite for cutting Super D’s hair. She was trying so hard to get it perfect. Finally I let her know it was ok if it wasn’t perfect. In the grand scheme of things, a haircut that isn’t perfectly balanced is a minor issue.
I’m not sure she really understood the situation, but like most she didn’t ask. I hate that. I wish more people would ask those questions. When people ask about him, I have a chance to share our story, and more importantly, God’s story for Super D.
“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” – Jeremiah 29:11
Life With Super D! 