For many parents of children with special needs, a simple haircut can be a daunting task. But one salon in South Lansing, Michigan, is changing the game by catering to the unique needs of these families. Glitter & Fade Kid's Salon, owned by 20-year hair styling veteran Kelsey Simpson, is a haven for kids with sensory issues, providing a safe and welcoming environment for them to get their hair cut.

Unlocking Haircut Happiness for Special Needs Families

A Sanctuary for Sensory-Sensitive Kids

Glitter & Fade Kid's Salon is a one-of-a-kind establishment that caters exclusively to children with special needs. Simpson, the salon's owner, has meticulously designed the space to cater to the unique sensory requirements of her young clients. The salon features kid-friendly haircut stations, including an airplane chair and a Spiderman car, as well as a big-screen TV constantly playing cartoons to captivate the children's attention. The vibrant visual distractions strategically placed throughout the salon allow Simpson to focus on the task at hand – cutting the child's hair – without overwhelming them.

The "Social Suite": A Sanctuary for Kids and Parents

Before any haircut even begins, Glitter & Fade offers a dedicated space for children and their parents to relax and unwind. The "Social Suite" is a large, comfortable back room filled with sensory toys and a cozy couch, providing a calming environment for families to prepare for the haircut experience. This dedicated space allows the children to acclimate to their surroundings and build trust with the salon staff, ultimately leading to a more successful and stress-free haircut.

Patience, Perseverance, and Precision: Kelsey Simpson's Specialty

Kelsey Simpson's expertise extends far beyond her technical haircutting skills. Her true specialty lies in her ability to understand and cater to the unique needs of her special needs clients. With a keen sense of when to cut and when to hold back, Simpson navigates the delicate process of trimming a child's hair with unparalleled patience and perseverance. Her approach is tailored to each individual child, ensuring that the experience is as positive and trauma-free as possible.

Transforming Haircut Trauma into Haircut Happiness

The impact of Glitter & Fade's services on the lives of special needs families cannot be overstated. Parents like Zack and Emma Allen, who have been bringing their 5-year-old autistic son Teddy to Simpson for the past year, attest to the salon's transformative power. "We tell anybody at all whatsoever that mentions any struggle with haircuts, to go to Kelsey," says Emma Allen, reflecting on the relief and joy they've experienced.For Simpson, the true measure of success lies in the absence of tears and the presence of smiles on her young clients' faces. "It's a complete success knowing I can get him in the chair and get his hair cut, completely finished with no tears," she says, underscoring the profound impact her salon has on the lives of these families.Glitter & Fade Kid's Salon is more than just a place to get a haircut; it's a sanctuary where special needs children and their families can find solace, support, and a newfound sense of confidence. Through Kelsey Simpson's unwavering dedication and innovative approach, the salon is transforming the once-dreaded haircut experience into a source of joy and empowerment for those who need it most.