How to Give First Haircut to a Baby

Your baby's first haircut is another milestone you will remember. The age you give your little one his first haircut varies according to how fast your baby's hair grows and its texture. The first haircut may be a little scary for your baby. Following a few steps will help make giving baby's first haircut easier for both of you.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Pick a good time of day. You know your baby best. Select a time to cut her hair when she is usually most pleasant. Consider her temperament after waking from a nap or in the morning.

2. Gather everything you will need. Be sure to have all supplies out before you start. Get scissors, or clippers. Have a comb and a spray bottle to wet your baby's hair. Put a towel around your baby's shoulders and secure it with a clip.

3. Record the event. Take a before picture and an after picture. Consider videotaping the haircut. Be sure to write down the date of baby's first haircut in his baby book.

4. Provide a distraction. Your baby will most likely not want to sit still while you cut her hair. Have a few toys available that she can play with. Another option is putting in a favorite DVD while you are giving the haircut.

5. Start with the bangs. Wet your baby's hair and comb it straight. Cut across to trim the bangs. If your little one starts to fuss and makes it difficult to continue at least you have the hair out of his eyes. Continue trimming the sides and back if baby allows.

6. Save a few locks of hair. Some baby books have a spot to place a few locks in. Keepsake boxes may also be purchased.

Tips & Warnings

• Don't spend a lot of time on the first haircut. Most babies cannot sit still for any length of time.
• Cut just a small amount of hair for baby's first haircut. You can always go back and cut more at another time. Keep in mind wet hair will shrink.
• Do not try any complicated styles at home unless you are a professional cosmetologist. If you want something fancy for your baby's first haircut take her to a salon. Many salons are especially for children.
• Restraining a child forcibly to allow you to cut his hair is a bad idea. Your little one may be afraid the first time they get a haircut. Restraining him will likely increase his fear. It may make him become afraid of haircuts in the future.

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