A new specialist hairdressing space has opened in Grange Farm, Milton Keynes, providing a calmer and more personalised environment for children who may find traditional hair salons difficult or overwhelming.
SENsory Space, based within Shortcuts Children’s Salon, has been created around the principle: “Every child. Their pace. Their space.”
The dedicated private room provides one-to-one hair appointments, allowing the environment and experience to be adapted to the individual needs of each child.
Sensory supports available include different seating options, fidget toys, weighted blankets and shoulder wraps, wobble cushions and massage cushions. Children can also take breaks during their appointment and proceed at a slower pace if required.
Hairdryers, clippers and other salon equipment can be kept out of sight where the sight or anticipation of them may cause anxiety.
Sensory Space has deliberately avoided filling the room with sensory equipment and toys. Instead, appropriate resources are selected for each child, helping to reduce the risk of the environment itself becoming overstimulating.
The space has been created by Nik, a hairstylist with more than 30 years of experience and a mum of five who also has personal experience of neurodivergence.
Before a child’s first appointment, parents and carers are asked to complete a consultation form covering areas including communication, sensory preferences, potential triggers and anything that could help their child feel more comfortable.
This information allows Nik to prepare the room and tailor the appointment around the child rather than expecting the child to adapt to a traditional salon environment.
FREE FAMILIARISATION VISITS
Sensory Space is also offering free 15-minute familiarisation visits throughout October.
These are relaxed, no-pressure sessions where children can visit the room, meet Nik and become familiar with the surroundings before booking a haircut.
There is no expectation for the child to have their hair cut during the familiarisation visit.
Sensory haircuts cost £30 and include a 30-minute private, one-to-one appointment tailored to the child and taken at their pace.
APPOINTMENT INFORMATION
Sensory Space
Shortcuts Children’s Salon
Grange Farm
Milton Keynes
MK8 0PX
Sensory Haircut: £30
Appointment length: 30 minutes
WhatsApp: 07533 937381
Bookings can be made online through the Sensory Space booking system.
Every child. Their pace. Their space.
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