Innovative Sensory-Friendly Haircut Curriculum Launched in Florida

Kate Owens Hines, founder of Kate Kuts salon in Bonita Springs, has launched a sensory-friendly haircut curriculum called Sensory Safe Solutions. This initiative addresses the challenges faced by children on the autism spectrum during haircuts, as Hines personally experienced with her son Waylon, who was diagnosed with autism in 2015.

Over five years, Hines collected 5,000 hours of sensory cutting data, collaborating with autism specialists to develop the curriculum, which trains barbers and stylists on accommodating sensory needs. Since its inception in June 2023, the program has created 984,000 safe spaces globally, certifying over 4,000 professionals in 45 states and seven countries.

The two-hour course emphasizes desensitization, encouraging stylists to adapt the haircut environment to each child's comfort level, promoting a no-restraint policy to ensure dignity and respect. Hines aims to achieve one million safe spaces worldwide by January 1, 2026, highlighting the importance of inclusivity in the beauty industry.