As many parents know, everyday things can be overwhelming for kids with sensory issues.

I know firsthand, as my son has had sensory issues since he was born. For example, since he was a toddler, he has struggled with many kinds of clothing including socks and many types of pants. Despite efforts like occupational therapy, he has continued to experience many sensory sensitivities, so as a result, accommodations have been made by us and anyone caring for him. It’s been tough, but these accommodations have helped him (and us!).

In addition, my son’s sensitivities have affected other everyday things in his life such as haircuts, so it’s been a journey making sure anyone cutting his hair is understanding and prepared for his special needs.

But then thankfully there are hairstylists like Charity Mohs who understand these special needs very well. Charity is a hairstylist in Edina whose daughter has had sensory struggles since she was born, and she has had to learn how to work with those needs in a world not always designed for kids like hers and mine. As a result, she designs appointments to accommodate unique sensitivity needs for kids, teens and adults.

I met Charity through the special needs support community, and I thought it would be great for her to cut my son’s hair. She does hair appointments on Wednesdays to Saturdays. Saturdays are the best day for sensory appointments, as she spaces appointment out and can take as much time as needed with each one. So we scheduled an appointment for a Saturday afternoon.

Charity has been a hair stylist since 2000, and is a stylist at District on 50th in Edina, where many stylists work together. The salon is beautiful and spacious, and there were a few other stylists working with their clients when we arrived.

Charity was ready for us and got to know us, instantly putting my son at ease. Then she took him back to a room with many comfortable hair-washing stations. I think he enjoyed the pampering…

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