Published on 12, July, 2020
Hi all,
I hope this is an appropriate place to post this question! I am trying to find an autism friendly hairdresser for my brother, who is 29 and non-verbal. He has been going to the same hairdresser for many years, but now that he is an adult and big and loud, they are getting impatient with him. I've been searching online and have found some good resources for children but nothing for adults. If there is anyone who has any advice I'd really appreciate it. Many thanks!
As people have suggested you may be able to google mobile hairdressers but I would also ask them about their experience in working with autistic people. From experience I’ve had mobile hairdressers who simply don’t “get it” and can’t understand how slow, gentle and patient you might need to be.
In my sons case I actually ended up watching dozens of YouTube videos, bought hairdressing scissors, and I taught myself to cut hair! It’s not the best looking cut ever but passable and means we can take it slowly, do half at a time (I’ll do back and sides one day then maybe the top a few days later) and my son can watch his favourite videos whilst we do it. Good luck!
I’d claim attitude is more important than experience. When you speak to someone, explain that it will be a long appointment, where they will need to build some trust. You can gauge an awful lot from how they reply to that. Our “keeper” had no experience with ASD, but was unphased by anything, and just asked how she could help. You can provide the expertise, you just need them to be willing and patient.