My ten-year-old son has autism. Every since he was a toddler, he yelled, screamed, cried and basically threw a fit whenever he had to get a haircut. I have learned over the years how to cut his hair. It hasn't gotten easier. Now, he is much stronger and thrashes about and kicks. He is so wound up that I think he might pass out from crying so hard and hyperventilating.
We've broken down the haircut over four days - tops only, sides and back, around the ears and finally the neck. He does great except when we have to cut around his ears and neck. My husband has to hold him down in order for us to do it. But, once it's done, my son bounces back and says, "I did pretty good? I only cried a little?" On the other hand, I am left frazzled, feeling horrible, and absolutely wiped out.
We've tried distracting him with movies, chewing gum, licking a lollipop, wearing ear plugs, etc. but nothing seems to work. We can only use scissors because the noise of the buzz clippers makes him even more upset.
Does it get better? Any insight on when this extreme sensitivity finally fades? I can't see myself trying to hold him down when he is a very strong 16 year old.
Many thanks for reading this and offering any comments or suggestion you might have.