There’s nothing like the terror in a toddler’s eyes when they see scissors near their head—or the meltdown that follows a well-intentioned haircut that turns your sweet baby into a mini grandpa.
Whether it’s your baby’s fuzzy first trim or your toddler’s first time requesting a “spiky like Spiderman” cut, here’s your full guide to navigating haircuts and hairstyles from cradle cap to cool kid.
Wait… What’s a “Taby”?
Glad you asked! A taby is that in-between stage from baby to toddler—usually between 9 to 18 months—where your child’s hair is half curls, half static, and fully unpredictable. The taby hair era is real, and it has no rules.
💇♂️ Babies (0–12 months)
Also known as: “Why does my baby have a mullet?”
Haircut Tips:
- Wait until at least 6–12 months, unless hair is getting in their eyes or causing skin irritation.
- First haircuts are mostly about the experience, not the style.
- Consider going to a kid-friendly salon with toys, bubbles, and distracted giggles.
- Bring a favorite toy or video for distraction—and keep expectations LOW.
Styles to Try:
- Soft trim around ears and eyes
- Keep curls (don’t fight the fluff!)
- Leave longer on top for baby man-buns or bows
Pro Tip:
Save a lock of hair. It’s cute now and priceless later (even if it’s covered in cereal dust).
👶 Tabies (12–18 months)
Also known as: “Please sit still. PLEASE.”
Tabies don’t know what’s going on, but they definitely don’t want it happening.
Haircut Tips:
- Choose quick, low-maintenance cuts.
- Avoid complicated styles—get in, get out, snack immediately.
- Sit them on your lap if needed. Some salons even cut hair in a high chair!
Styles to Try:
- Clean trim around ears and nape
- Mini bangs (careful—they grow out weird fast)
- Tapered sides and a little volume on top
- Headbands, soft clips, or top knots for longer hair
👦🧒 Toddlers (18 months – 3 years)
Also known as: “I want hair like Bluey!”
Now they have opinions. Sometimes strong ones. Be ready.
Haircut Tips:
- Give them choices: “Do you want short like Dad or spiky like a lion?”
- Bring a photo or visual aid (they won’t say “fade” but they’ll say “like Paw Patrol”).
- Reward system is a must: treat, sticker, or an extra bedtime story.
Boys’ Styles:
- Classic crew cut
- Fauxhawk (cute and trendy!)
- Long layers with side part
- Buzz with design (for the adventurous)
Girls’ Styles:
- Bob cut with bangs
- Shoulder-length with soft layers
- Top knot + fringe combo
- Toddler pigtails or twist braids
👧👦 Preschoolers & Kids (3–7 years)
Also known as: “It’s giving ✨attitude✨”
At this stage, hairstyles become a part of their identity. You’ll hear things like “I want Elsa hair” or “I want to look like a ninja.”
Haircut Tips:
- Encourage haircare routines: brushing, washing, no chewing it please 🙃
- Let them express themselves (yes, even if it’s a mohawk phase)
- Go with styles that suit their personality and activity level
Low-Maintenance Styles:
- Bob with layers = quick brush and done
- Short curls with product = wash and fluff
- High pony with braid = stays in place all day
- Undercut = no sweaty neck in summer
🧼 Hair Care Must-Knows for All Ages:
- Use tear-free shampoo and conditioner for tangles.
- Wide-tooth comb = your best friend (especially post-nap).
- Avoid adult styling products; stick to natural, child-safe ones.
- Regular trims help prevent breakage and keep shape.
- Distraction is everything: snacks, songs, screen time—use what you’ve got!
💡 Real Talk: What to Do When They Hate Haircuts
- Normalize the experience. Watch videos or read books about getting a haircut.
- Bring a friend or sibling. Peer pressure can work in your favor.
- Don’t force it. Try again next week if they’re in full meltdown mode.
- Celebrate after! Whether it’s ice cream, stickers, or a victory dance, make it special.
Final Thoughts: Baby Hair Is Temporary, But the Photos Are Forever 📸
There’s no right or wrong way to style your child’s hair. Some rock the wild curl look until kindergarten. Others get buzz cuts before they can walk.
Do what works for your child’s mood, your schedule, and your sanity—and don’t forget to snap those post-haircut selfies. Because someday, you’ll miss their baby bangs and crooked pigtails.
(But not the hair in your coffee. Never that.)
