As parents, we all want our kids to look and feel their best. But one question we hear often at The Beauty Box in Rye, NY and Ridgefield, CT is: how often should kids get haircuts? The answer depends on a few factors, like age, hair type, and your child’s style preferences. To help you out, we’ve put together this handy guide to understanding kids’ haircut frequency and how to keep your child’s hair healthy and neat.

Why Regular Haircuts Matter

Routine trims aren’t just about appearance, they help maintain healthy hair and promote better growth. Whether your child has curls, straight strands, or something in between, regular haircuts can reduce tangles, eliminate split ends, and make everyday styling easier.

General Guidelines by Age

Here’s a basic breakdown to help determine how often to trim children’s hair:

Babies (under 2 years old)

Hair grows at different rates in infancy. Some babies need their first trim by 6 months, while others don’t need one until after their first birthday. After that, every 3-6 months is typically enough unless hair grows quickly.

Toddlers (ages 2–4)

This is when regular haircuts begin to become part of the routine. We recommend every 8-12 weeks for toddlers, depending on how quickly their hair grows and the style they wear.

School-Age Kids (ages 5–10)

For children in this age group, kids haircut frequency depends on their lifestyle and haircut preference. Short cuts may need trimming every 4-6 weeks, while longer styles can go 8-10 weeks between visits.

Tweens & Teens

As they become more style-conscious, tweens and teens may want more frequent trims to maintain their desired look. Every 6-8 weeks is a good benchmark.

Factors That Affect Haircut Timing

Besides age, here are a few other things to consider:

  • Hair texture: Fine hair may look stringy sooner and benefit from more frequent trims. Thicker hair can go longer without looking overgrown.
  • Activity level: Active kids, especially those in sports, may need trims more often to keep hair manageable.
  • Style goals: Maintaining a bob or short fade will require more frequent upkeep than a long, layered look.

Haircut Maintenance Tips for Parents

Keeping your child’s hair looking great between visits doesn’t have to be a challenge. Here are a few haircut maintenance tips to help:

  • Brush daily to prevent tangles and distribute natural oils
  • Use kid-friendly products like detangling sprays or leave-in conditioner
  • Trim bangs at home only if you’re confident—otherwise, leave it to the pros!
  • Book regular appointments so haircuts become part of a predictable routine

When to Book the Next Appointment

If you’re noticing shaggy ends, uneven lengths, or a style that’s no longer holding up, it’s probably time for a trim. Our stylists at The Beauty Box will gladly guide you on the best schedule for your child’s specific needs.

Ready to maintain that fresh look? Our Rye, NY and Ridgefield, CT teams make haircuts easy and fun for kids of all ages. Whether it’s time for a simple trim or a brand-new style, we’re here to help.