Hair Brushing 

Strategies for Hair Brushing

• Use a brush with a large head or sensory-friendly tools like a detangling brush, wide-tooth comb, or wet brush (designed to reduce pulling) 

• Go slow and gentle. Start at the ends of the hair and work upwards in small sections. You can try holding the hair above the section you are brushing to help reduce tugging on the scalp

• Brush child’s hair in front of the mirror so child can predict the touch/see what is happening. Talk through what you're doing so they know to expect. 

• Massage the scalp before hair brushing – with hands or with a head massager

• Have the child play with/brush their own hair

• Have them hold something comforting while you brush their hair (a toy, favourite stuffed animal)

• Try out detangling spray or leave in-conditioner to make brushing much smoother

• If your child is one that likes to be in control of a task allow them to choose: which brush to use, when to brush their hair (morning, after bath, etc.) whether they want help or do it themselves

• Create a comfortable setup with distraction (tablet, favourite show or music)

• Make it part of a predictable routine (ie: after bath every night)

• Use visual schedules or social stories to prepare them for hair brushing routine

• Consider timing: don't brush when your child is already tired and upset. Aim for time when they are relaxed and regulated 

• Pair routine with a fun game or story. Pretend they are a character getting ready for a special ball or mission.