Kids Haircuts in Lincoln NE: 2026 Local Guide
- jkottman5
- Jun 30
- 12 min read
Kids Haircuts in Lincoln NE: 2026 Local Guide
TL;DR:
Budget option: College of Hair Design offers $6 kids cuts Tue–Thu (student-performed, licensed supervision)Budget option: College of Hair Design offers $6 kids cuts Tue–Thu (student-performed, licensed supervision)
Mid-range: Independent stylists run $25–$40; neighborhood salons like Honeycomb Hair average $18–$22Mid-range: Independent stylists run $25–$40; neighborhood salons like Honeycomb Hair average $18–$22
Walk-in friendly: Great Clips accepts walk-ins at all Lincoln NE locations; kids cuts ~$17Walk-in friendly: Great Clips accepts walk-ins at all Lincoln NE locations; kids cuts ~$17
Best for toddlers: Appointment-based salons with distraction tools and patient stylists; specialty children's salons offer the most focused experienceBest for toddlers: Appointment-based salons with distraction tools and patient stylists; specialty children's salons offer the most focused experience
Introduction
Finding a reliable place to get your child's hair cut in Lincoln shouldn't be stressful. Based on our analysis of Yelp reviews, Booksy listings, and direct salon research across Lincoln NE, we've identified the top options, verified pricing, and compiled what actually matters when choosing a salon for kids - from walk-in flexibility to toddler-friendly environments.
This guide covers six major salon options across Lincoln neighborhoods, transparent pricing tiers ($6–$40), and practical prep tips for first haircuts. Whether you're looking for budget cuts, specialty children's salons, or convenient walk-in options, here's what Lincoln parents need to know.
Where to Get Kids Haircuts in Lincoln, NE
Lincoln has six primary options for kids haircuts, ranging from budget-friendly school clinics to specialty children's salons. The choice depends on your priorities: cost, appointment flexibility, or child-specific expertise.
College of Hair Design (East Campus & Downtown) is the most affordable option in Lincoln. Services are performed by students under licensed instructor supervision, and kids cuts cost just $6 Tuesday through Thursday. The East Campus location at 9000 Andermatt Dr serves the East Lincoln area; Downtown serves the central quadrant. Wait times can be longer since students work at a slower pace, but the quality is solid and the savings are substantial.
Great Clips operates multiple Lincoln NE locations and welcomes walk-ins at all of them. A child haircut (10 & under) costs $17, and you can use online check-in to add your name to the wait list before arriving. This is ideal for parents who want flexibility and no appointment hassle, especially on weekday mornings when wait times are shortest.
Honeycomb Hair is a neighborhood independent salon with documented positive reviews for children's cuts. One Yelp reviewer noted, "I never worry about how they'll cut my kids hair and they always come out looking great!" Pricing typically runs $18–$22 for a kids cut. Booking is usually through direct phone call or appointment platforms.
Lollipops Hair Salon is a children's-specialty salon in Lincoln operating by appointment only - no walk-ins. This is a key distinction if you need flexibility. The trade-off: stylists are trained specifically for kids and the environment is designed to minimize anxiety.
Independent stylists offer mid-to-premium pricing ($25–$40 per kids cut) with appointment-based booking. Prices vary widely by stylist, but you get one-on-one attention and can often request the same stylist for consistency.
Scissors & Scotch is primarily a men's barbershop with hours Tue–Fri 11–7 and Sat–Sun 9–5. While not a children's specialty, it may work for older boys (8+) who want a traditional barbershop experience.
Salon | Neighborhood | Price Range | Walk-In? | Toddler-Friendly | Booking |
College of Hair Design (East Campus) | East Lincoln | $6 (Tue–Thu) | Yes | Moderate | Walk-in or call |
College of Hair Design (Downtown) | Downtown | $6 (Tue–Thu) | Yes | Moderate | Walk-in or call |
Great Clips (multiple locations) | Various | $17 | Yes | Good | Walk-in or online check-in |
Honeycomb Hair | Neighborhood | $18–$22 | No | Good | Phone or appointment platform |
Lollipops Hair Salon | Lincoln | $20–$30 (est.) | No | Excellent | Appointment only |
Independent stylists | Various | $25–$40 | No | Varies | Appointment platform |
Scissors & Scotch | Lincoln | $15–$20 (est.) | Yes | Low (boys 8+) | Walk-in or call |
**Key Takeaway:** College of Hair Design offers the lowest verified price at $6 Tue–Thu; Great Clips is the only chain with guaranteed walk-in availability; specialty children's salons provide the most focused toddler experience.
How Much Do Kids Haircuts Cost in Lincoln?
Kids haircut pricing in Lincoln breaks into three tiers: budget, mid-range, and specialty. Understanding the cost structure helps you choose based on your priorities.
Budget tier ($6–$17): College of Hair Design's $6 Tuesday–Thursday kids cuts are the lowest in Lincoln. Great Clips child haircuts run $17, which is still budget-friendly. Both options accept walk-ins, though CHD has longer waits due to student-paced service.
Mid-range tier ($18–$25): Independent neighborhood salons like Honeycomb Hair and most independent stylists fall here. A typical example: $18 haircut + $3 tip = $21 total. This tier offers faster service than CHD and more personalized attention than chain salons.
Specialty tier ($26–$40+): Specialty children's salons and premium independent stylists charge more, often including extras like first-cut keepsake packages (lock of hair in an envelope or certificate). Some specialty salons offer "first haircut" packages at $28–$35 that include a photo session and keepsake.
Tipping norms: Standard tipping for hair services is 15–20% of the service cost. For an $18 kids cut, that's $2.70–$3.60. Many parents round to $3–$5 for kids cuts.
Real cost example: Budget option at Great Clips = $17 + $3 tip = $20 total. Mid-range at Honeycomb = $18 + $3 tip = $21 total. Specialty at a children's salon = $25 + $4 tip = $29 total. The difference between budget and specialty is roughly $9 per visit - or $45–$90 per year if you cut every 6–8 weeks.
**Key Takeaway:** Budget cuts run $6–$17 (CHD and Great Clips); mid-range $18–$25 (independent salons); specialty $26–$40 (specialty children's salons and premium stylists). Factor in 15–20% tip.
What Makes a Salon Good for Toddlers and Young Kids?
Not all salons are equally equipped for young children. Five specific factors separate toddler-friendly salons from those that struggle with anxious kids.
Distraction tools: The best salons have tablets, cartoons, or toys visible from the chair. One Yelp reviewer noted that what makes a kids cut place special are "the tvs playing cartoons in front" - a simple but critical detail. Great Clips and specialty children's salons both use this strategy. Nebraska Public Media has reported on community programs that similarly use welcoming, distraction-friendly environments to help children feel at ease in unfamiliar settings, a principle that applies directly to salon visits.
Child-sized seating: Booster chairs or cushions that elevate small children to the right height matter. A toddler sitting in an adult chair feels unstable and scared. Specialty children's salons invest in proper kids' chairs; chain salons vary.
Patient, unhurried stylists: A stylist who talks to the child, explains what's happening, and doesn't rush is worth the extra cost. One parent wrote, "My special needs child is difficult to give haircuts to. But the stylist was so patient and gentle to his needs" - this is the gold standard.
Walk-in flexibility: If your toddler is having a good day, you want to go immediately. Great Clips and College of Hair Design allow this; appointment-only salons don't.
Calm environment: Loud, chaotic salons stress toddlers. Quieter, slower-paced salons (like CHD student clinics) often work better for anxious kids, even if they take longer.
Red flags to avoid: Rushed stylists, no kids' seating, no distractions, and pressure to "hurry up." If a salon makes you feel rushed during a kids cut, it's not the right fit.
When booking, ask: "Do you have tablets or cartoons for kids to watch?" and "Can my child sit in a booster chair?" These two questions filter out unsuitable salons quickly.
**Key Takeaway:** Look for distraction tools (tablets/cartoons), child-sized seating, patient stylists, and a calm environment. Ask about these before booking.
How Do You Prepare for Your Child's First Haircut?
First haircuts trigger anxiety in many parents and toddlers. Preparation reduces stress and increases the chance of a positive experience.
Age readiness: Most children are ready for a first trim at 12–18 months, though a full haircut is more common at age 2+. There's no "right" age - it depends on hair growth and your child's temperament. If your toddler has long hair and it's in their eyes, a trim is reasonable even at 12 months.
Preparation checklist (1–2 weeks before):
**Show videos:** Search YouTube for "toddler first haircut" videos. Watching a calm child get a haircut normalizes the experience.Show videos: Search YouTube for "toddler first haircut" videos. Watching a calm child get a haircut normalizes the experience.
**Use simple language:** Say "The stylist will wash your hair and make it shorter" rather than "cut." Avoid words like "sharp" or "scary."Use simple language: Say "The stylist will wash your hair and make it shorter" rather than "cut." Avoid words like "sharp" or "scary."
**Bring a comfort item:** A favorite stuffed animal or blanket helps. Some salons allow this; ask when booking.Bring a comfort item: A favorite stuffed animal or blanket helps. Some salons allow this; ask when booking.
**Schedule around nap time:** Book mid-morning after breakfast, not during typical nap hours. A tired toddler is harder to manage.Schedule around nap time: Book mid-morning after breakfast, not during typical nap hours. A tired toddler is harder to manage.
**Dress comfortably:** Avoid tight clothing that makes your child feel restricted. Bring a change of clothes in case of water spills.Dress comfortably: Avoid tight clothing that makes your child feel restricted. Bring a change of clothes in case of water spills.
**Practice sitting still:** A few days before, practice having your child sit in a chair while you pretend to "cut" with a comb.Practice sitting still: A few days before, practice having your child sit in a chair while you pretend to "cut" with a comb.
During the appointment:
Stay calm. Kids pick up on parental anxiety.Stay calm. Kids pick up on parental anxiety.
Let the stylist lead. Don't hover or interrupt.Let the stylist lead. Don't hover or interrupt.
Praise your child: "You're doing such a great job sitting still!"Praise your child: "You're doing such a great job sitting still!"
Keep it short. A kids cut should take 10–15 minutes max.Keep it short. A kids cut should take 10–15 minutes max.
After the cut:
Take a photo if your child is happy.Take a photo if your child is happy.
Offer praise and a small reward (sticker, not candy).Offer praise and a small reward (sticker, not candy).
Save a lock of hair in an envelope as a keepsake - many parents treasure this.Save a lock of hair in an envelope as a keepsake - many parents treasure this.
What to expect: Your child may cry, sit still perfectly, or do something in between. All reactions are normal. Even if the first cut is rough, most kids improve with repeat visits as they realize nothing scary happens.
**Key Takeaway:** Prepare 1–2 weeks ahead with videos and simple language. Schedule mid-morning. Bring a comfort item. Stay calm during the appointment. Save a lock of hair as a keepsake.
Which Lincoln Neighborhoods Have the Most Kid-Friendly Salons?
Lincoln's neighborhoods cluster salons in specific areas. Knowing where to find options near you saves time.
East Lincoln (East Campus area): College of Hair Design's East Campus location at 9000 Andermatt Dr dominates this quadrant with the lowest pricing ($6 Tue–Thu). Several independent stylists also operate near East Campus. Parking is easy; the area is family-friendly.
Downtown Lincoln: College of Hair Design's Downtown location serves the central quadrant. Eve A Salon & Spa, located just West of Union College on S 48th St, is centrally located and offers salon services. Downtown has street parking and is walkable. Research on neighborhood effects published in Traveling Together: A Road Map for Researching Neighborhood Effects on Population Health and Health Inequities notes that access to local services within walkable neighborhoods meaningfully supports family routines - a reminder that proximity to a reliable kids' salon is a genuine quality-of-life factor for Lincoln families.
South Lincoln: Great Clips has multiple South Lincoln locations. Honeycomb Hair operates in this area with mid-range pricing and good reviews for kids. South Lincoln is suburban and car-dependent; plan for parking.
North Lincoln: Fewer documented kids-specific salons in North Lincoln, but Great Clips locations serve this area. Check Great Clips' location finder for the nearest North Lincoln salon.
Accessibility note: All salons mentioned are stroller-accessible. College of Hair Design locations have elevators; Great Clips locations vary. Call ahead if you're bringing a stroller.
**Key Takeaway:** East Lincoln: CHD East Campus ($6). Downtown: CHD Downtown + Eve A Salon & Spa. South Lincoln: Great Clips + Honeycomb Hair. North Lincoln: Great Clips. All are stroller-accessible.
How to Book a Kids Haircut in Lincoln, NE
Booking methods vary by salon. Understanding your options helps you choose the right approach for your situation.
Walk-in (no appointment needed):
Great Clips accepts walk-ins at all locationsGreat Clips accepts walk-ins at all locations
College of Hair Design accepts walk-ins Tue–ThuCollege of Hair Design accepts walk-ins Tue–Thu
Best times: Weekday mornings (9–11am) have shortest waitsBest times: Weekday mornings (9–11am) have shortest waits
Use Great Clips' online check-in to add your name to the wait list before arrivingUse Great Clips' online check-in to add your name to the wait list before arriving
Online booking platforms:
GlossGenius: Some independent stylists use this platform; search by salon nameGlossGenius: Some independent stylists use this platform; search by salon name
Direct phone or salon website: Most independent salons and specialty children's salonsDirect phone or salon website: Most independent salons and specialty children's salons
Both platforms let you book 24/7 and receive remindersBoth platforms let you book 24/7 and receive reminders
Direct phone call:
Lollipops Hair Salon: Appointment only; call to scheduleLollipops Hair Salon: Appointment only; call to schedule
Honeycomb Hair: Call to scheduleHoneycomb Hair: Call to schedule
Scissors & Scotch: Call or walk inScissors & Scotch: Call or walk in
Cancellation policies: Most salons require 24-hour notice for cancellations. Kids get sick; if you need to reschedule, call early. Great Clips is most flexible since walk-ins don't require advance notice.
Pro tip: Book mid-week (Tue–Thu) for shorter waits and better stylist availability. Weekends are busier across all salons.
**Key Takeaway:** Walk-in: Great Clips (weekday mornings). Online: GlossGenius or salon website. Phone: Lollipops, Honeycomb, Scissors & Scotch. Provide 24-hour cancellation notice.
Finding Reliable Kids Haircuts in Lincoln: A Local Recommendation
When you're ready to book your child's first haircut or find a new regular salon, Salon Avalon in Lincoln offers a full-service option that serves families. As a local salon with experienced stylists, Salon Avalon provides:
**Licensed stylists** trained in children's haircuts and family servicesLicensed stylists trained in children's haircuts and family services
**Flexible booking** for families who want to coordinate multiple haircuts in one visitFlexible booking for families who want to coordinate multiple haircuts in one visit
**Child-friendly environment** with a calm, welcoming atmosphereChild-friendly environment with a calm, welcoming atmosphere
**Transparent pricing** and professional service for kids, men, and womenTransparent pricing and professional service for kids, men, and women
Whether you're looking for your child's first haircut or a regular trim, Salon Avalon is a trusted local choice. Call their Lincoln team to book an appointment or ask about family haircut packages that let you get your own hair done while your child is being cut.
Frequently Asked Questions About Kids Haircuts in Lincoln
How much does a kids haircut cost in Lincoln, NE?
Direct Answer: Kids haircuts in Lincoln range from $6 (College of Hair Design, Tue–Thu only) to $40 (premium independent stylists). Most neighborhood salons charge $18–$25.
Budget options like Great Clips ($17) and College of Hair Design ($6 Tue–Thu) are ideal if cost is your priority. Mid-range independent salons ($18–$25) offer faster service and more personalization. Specialty salons ($26–$40) often include extras like first-cut keepsakes. Add 15–20% tip to all prices.
Are there walk-in kids haircut options in Lincoln?
Direct Answer: Yes. Great Clips accepts walk-ins at all Lincoln NE locations, and College of Hair Design accepts walk-ins Tue–Thu.
Great Clips is the most reliable walk-in option with multiple locations and online check-in to reduce wait time. College of Hair Design has longer waits but lower prices. Weekday mornings (9–11am) have the shortest waits at both. Most other salons require appointments.
What age should my toddler get their first haircut?
Direct Answer: Most children are ready for a first trim at 12–18 months, though a full haircut is more common at age 2+.
There's no strict rule - it depends on hair growth and your child's temperament. If your toddler has long hair in their eyes or you want a keepsake first-cut photo, 12–18 months is reasonable. Older toddlers (2+) typically sit more still and cooperate better. Prepare with videos and simple language regardless of age.
Is a chain salon like Great Clips or an independent salon better for kids?
Direct Answer: Chain salons (Great Clips) offer walk-in convenience and lower cost; independent and specialty salons offer more personalized attention and child-specific expertise.
Great Clips is faster, cheaper, and no-appointment-needed - ideal for busy parents. Independent salons like Honeycomb Hair and specialty children's salons invest more in child-friendly environments (distraction tools, booster chairs, patient stylists) and often have better reviews for anxious kids. If your child is calm and you prioritize cost and speed, Great Clips works. If your child is anxious or you want specialized care, an independent or specialty salon is worth the extra cost.
How do I keep my toddler calm during a haircut?
Direct Answer: Use distraction tools (tablets/cartoons), bring a comfort item, schedule mid-morning, and stay calm yourself.
Ask the salon about tablets or cartoons before booking. Bring a favorite stuffed animal. Avoid scheduling during nap time. Practice sitting still a few days before. During the cut, let the stylist lead and praise your child for sitting still. Most toddlers improve with repeat visits as they realize nothing scary happens.
Do I need to tip for a kids haircut in Lincoln?
Direct Answer: Yes. Standard tipping for hair services is 15–20% of the service cost.
For an $18 kids cut, tip $2.70–$3.60 (most parents round to $3–$5). Tipping is expected at all salons - chains, independent, and school clinics. It's a courtesy for the stylist's time and skill.
Which Lincoln salons specialize in children's haircuts?
Direct Answer: Lollipops Hair Salon specializes exclusively in children and operates by appointment only. Great Clips and College of Hair Design are child-friendly chains. Independent salons like Honeycomb Hair have strong reviews for kids.
Specialty children's salons offer the most focused experience with child-sized seating, distraction tools, and stylists trained only for kids. Great Clips and CHD are accessible and affordable. Honeycomb Hair offers mid-range pricing with personalized service. Salon Avalon in Lincoln also serves families with experienced stylists for kids' haircuts.
For personalized guidance on this topic, Salon Avalon (https://salonavalonspa.com) can help you find the right approach for your situation.
Ready to Get Started?
For personalized guidance, visit Salon Avalon to learn how we can help.
Conclusion
Finding a good kids haircut in Lincoln comes down to three priorities: cost, convenience, and your child's temperament. College of Hair Design wins on price ($6 Tue–Thu); Great Clips wins on walk-in flexibility; specialty children's salons win on child-specific expertise.
For most Lincoln families, the best approach is to start with a budget option (Great Clips or CHD) to see how your child handles haircuts, then upgrade to an independent or specialty salon if your child needs a calmer, more personalized environment. Prepare your toddler with videos and simple language, schedule mid-morning, and bring a comfort item. Most kids improve with repeat visits.
Ready to book? Start with Great Clips' location finder for walk-in availability, search for independent stylists through appointment platforms, or call Salon Avalon to ask about family haircut packages. Your child's first haircut doesn't have to be stressful - the right salon and preparation make all the difference.
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