VALRICO, Fla. — For some people who experience sensory processing issues, everyday tasks like getting a haircut may not be the relaxing or enjoyable experience it is for others.

One Tampa Bay area hair stylist is trying to change that by getting a unique certification.

What You Need To Know

  • April is Autism Awareness Month, and Spectrum News is highlighting Pigtails and Crewcuts, a sensory safe hair salon in Valrico

  • Stylist Shanelle Caveda says they try to make the experience one that will keep children smiling

  • The salon serves clients of all ages, and appointments can take more than 30 minutes

Stepping inside Pigtails and Crewcuts, it’s not your typical hair salon.

Even before getting to the chair, appointments start a little differently.

“I sit here with the child and have them get accustomed with the space and get comfortable with me,” Shanelle Caveda said.

She has been a hair stylist for more than 20 years, but only recently became certified as a sensory safe hairstylist.

For Caveda, it’s fulfilling to provide a service some may see as basic grooming.

The certification requires a four-hour course and her services are tailored to each client.

Caveda says she’s learned how to handle potential triggers that can impact clients with autism.

“We utilize tools like (a) massager, which mimics the sound of a clipper,” she said.

Using this approach, a new client’s initial hair appointment can take more than 30 minutes.

“Children who are on the spectrum can be terrified. The hair falling on your neck on your back on your arms can feel itchy and uncomfortable,” she said.

The most rewarding part for her is seeing a child smile once it’s all over.

“I try to make it a fun time. I don’t want to make it hurt,” Caveda said.

The salon caters to children of all ages on the autism spectrum and offers services in Spanish.