Sweet Dreams: Overcoming Night Terrors
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The Dreaded “S” Word: SPLINTING
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It’s a fairly common challenge for children to fear haircuts. When you think about it, it makes perfect sense.
They’re often instructed to be cautious around sharp objects and even warned to steer clear of scissors. So, when they find themselves seated in a chair with a stranger holding something sharp near their head, it’s completely understandable why they might feel afraid.
Our eldest son, J. Morgan, fell squarely into this category. The very idea of getting a haircut would send him into a total meltdown.
Finally, I decided to have a heart-to-heart with him and asked a simple question, “What can we do to make getting your hair cut easier for you?” His response was straightforward: "Mom has to do it, I get to watch Thomas the Train, and wear my safety goggles."
Alongside his list of conditions, we agreed that I’d make 5 snips while he counted along. The primary objective was clear: establish trust with J. Morgan and help him feel more comfortable about the entire process.
Sure, his hair might have ended up a bit uneven initially, but after a few more weekly attempts using this approach, he swiftly grasped that haircuts weren’t as daunting as he had imagined.
As a parent (or a professional working with children) encountering little ones who become incredibly distressed at the mere thought of a haircut is not uncommon. Sometimes, the key is finding a way to ease their fears. Perhaps employing a similar approach to what worked for J. Morgan could be beneficial for them too. It’s all about creating a safe and reassuring environment while giving them some sense of control over the situation.
By initiating an open dialogue and understanding their needs, we can navigate through their fears step by step. Every child is unique and what works for one may not work for another; but the principle of building trust and providing reassurance remains constant. Eventually, with patience and persistence, many children can overcome their fear of haircuts and begin to see it as a manageable and even enjoyable experience.
Remember: It’s about the journey toward comfort, not just the destination of a perfectly styled haircut. Helping a child overcome their fear of haircuts isn’t just about grooming; it’s about nurturing their sense of trust and empowerment in handling new and potentially scary situations.
