Another Meaningful Milestone: A Playhouse Parent’s Story

I’m not sure the young barber who has now cut Ben’s hair two times realizes the impact that he has had on our lives. To many people getting a decent, let alone a GOOD, haircut for their child might not seem like a big deal.

Ben after his first haircut with Manny.

The fact is that for over 4 years haircuts have been one of those tasks that I have dreaded! I mean seriously, I would break out in a sweat at the thought of having to take this kiddo for a haircut. This has resulted in him going entirely too long between cuts at times. We tried all the tricks, new salons, bribes, haircuts in the home and even the straight up all over buzz cut. It was one of those things that frankly just WORE. ME. OUT!

About a month ago, I had a moment of bravery and decided to try taking Ben to the hottest barber shop in town to see if MAYBE “today was the day!” I was fully prepared to walk out of there without a haircut. As I got Ben to sit in that chair and this hip young man, Manny, stood hesitantly at the ready with the clippers while Ben began to scream I looked up and said, “Just GO! Do it!” The next moment struck me so deeply as this young kid trusted me and went for it…calmly. He was patient. He took my cues as I used every ounce of strength in me to remain composed and just talk to my very unhappy little man and then…. CALM! Ben relaxed. He giggled. He talked to this man behind him and then we were done.

Ben showing off his latest look!

Ben now had the best haircut of his life. He actually had a cute style. He smiled and was proud and then he high fived Manny. I wanted to throw my arms around Manny’s neck and hug him. I think I could have literally skipped out of that barber shop. I couldn’t stop looking at Ben. I couldn’t stop telling him how proud I was.

I couldn’t stop thinking of this young barber and what he did for me this afternoon. I wrote him a thank you note. I tried not to sound like a crazy lady…but truthfully there are no real words that can convey the gratitude I felt. My son got a haircut. A stylish haircut…in the hottest barber shop in town. Today we went back. Ben was happy to see Manny and greeted him warmly and Manny pulled up a photo that we had taken of the two of them the last time we were in….and today, Ben got another haircut.