Kids' Haircut Salons in Montreal That Make It Fun

Haircuts Don't Have to Be a Battle

If you've ever wrestled a screaming toddler into a barber's chair, you know that haircuts can be one of the most dreaded parenting tasks. But Montreal has several salons that have cracked the code — making haircuts fun (or at least painless) for kids. These places understand that a child's first haircut experiences shape their relationship with grooming for years to come.

Dedicated Kids' Salons

Bubbles Hair in the Plateau is one of Montreal's original kids' hair salons and still one of the best. The chairs are shaped like race cars, airplanes, and horses. Screens play cartoons during the cut. Stylists are trained to work with wiggly, nervous, and sensory-sensitive children — they know when to pause, when to distract, and when to just go fast.

First haircuts come with a certificate and a lock of hair in a keepsake envelope — a sweet touch that parents appreciate. Cuts cost $22-30 depending on age and complexity. No appointment needed for simple kids' cuts, but booking is recommended on weekends.

HairPlay in NDG takes the entertainment factor up a notch with tablets at every station, a small play area in the waiting zone, and stylists who genuinely enjoy working with children. They're particularly good with kids who have special needs — they'll adjust lighting, reduce noise, and take all the time needed.

Cuts run $25-35. They also offer a "Quiet Cut" option for sensory-sensitive children — a private room with dimmed lights and minimal stimulation. This is a game-changer for families dealing with autism spectrum or sensory processing challenges.

Minimod Coiffure in Laval caters to both kids and parents — so you can get your haircut done at the same time. The kids' section has toy-filled chairs and cartoon screens, while the adult section is a full-service salon. Family appointments save time by getting everyone done in one visit.

Tips for Tear-Free Haircuts

1. Start young — Expose children to the salon environment early, even before they need a cut. Let them watch a sibling go first.
2. Go when they're rested and fed — A tired, hungry child will not tolerate sitting still.
3. Bring a favourite toy or comfort item — Something familiar helps in an unfamiliar environment.
4. Don't overpromise — Saying "it won't hurt at all" sets up distrust if they feel anything uncomfortable. Instead: "the scissors might feel tickly."
5. Stay calm yourself — Kids mirror parental anxiety. If you're tense, they will be too.
6. Use positive reinforcement — A small treat after a successful haircut creates a positive association.
7. Consider a home visit — Some kids' stylists will come to your house. It costs more ($40-60) but removes the unfamiliar environment factor.

When Regular Salons Work Fine

Not every kid needs a specialty salon. Many regular barbers and salons are perfectly good with children, especially once kids are past the toddler stage (around age 4-5). Ask friends for recommendations — word of mouth is the most reliable indicator.

Some traditional barbershops in Montreal that are known for being kid-friendly:

• Rital Barbier in the Plateau — Warm atmosphere, patient barbers
• Henri et Fils in Villeray — Father-son barber team that specializes in family cuts

Browse family services in Montreal on FamiliQC.