Cyrus’s First Haircut Adventure: Curls, Cars, Persian Parenting

Ah, the milestone of a baby’s first haircut – a topic that manages to unite parents across cultures, each with its unique set of traditions and, of course, a touch of familial humour. In our household, with our little Persian prince, Cyrus, reaching that fuzzy crossroad, the decision to trim those golden curls was not taken lightly.

A blonde-curled ‘pesar tala,’ our golden boy, and one baba suggesting a DIY haircut at home. As a mama, I shot him a look that could have rivalled the sternest of glares from his Persian grandmother. After all, Persian boys typically undergo a complete shave during their first year, a tradition laden with cultural significance. But not in our house, not just yet.

“It’s only hair,” H would nonchalantly insist. “I can do it at home, we don’t need to take him to the salon.”

Now, considering Muslim babies get a clean shave seven days into life, my hesitation might seem a tad extravagant. But hey, have you seen Cyrus’ curls? I couldn’t bear the thought of H channeling his inner hair stylist, especially envisioning a dubious bowl-cut attempt.

So, off we went to the salon – Pikku Hair Salon in Gosforth High Street, Newcastle, to be precise. I had heard rave reviews from friends about this vibrant salon that caters to first haircuts, birthdays, and whatnot. Booking online was a breeze; we even got to choose our stylist. A salon with options? A new mum’s dreams do come true!

Upon arrival, we were greeted with the modern parenting marvel of a quiet salon. Little C got to choose his car-chair and his movie on the iPad dashboard. How times have changed since the days when the ‘over-40 new mum’ was a young thing! Who knew haircut appointments came with entertainment options?

Now, let’s talk about keeping calm – a challenge not just for the baby but for anxious parents. Plastic cape, water spray, and the delightful Zoe began her work. But fear not, for we were prepared. Little C was too engrossed in ‘brum-brum’ noises and Disney’s Cars to even notice the transformation happening on his head.

In the UK, we’re known for our desire to preserve our babies’ looks. Hence, a mere trim was on the agenda. No squirming, no fuss – all credit to the salon’s ingenious plan to keep kids entertained. A steering wheel on the car-chair? Genius!

And because every baby’s first haircut deserves a memento, our little Cyrus left the salon with more than just a tidy head. A special certificate, two little bags of golden locks (because, why not?), a green balloon, and some bubbles were the cherries on top of his £13.50 haircut.

So, there you have it – the tale of Little C’s first haircut, a saga of curls, cars, and Persian parenting. Next stop, preserving those curls in the baby album, because, as any mum would tell you, they grow up too fast.