Looking neat and looking sharp is part of our lives.
But sometimes, these seemingly simple tasks are a challenge for some.
Haircuts, most notably, can be an anxiety-inducing task, especially for children.
A barber from Cincinnati, however, wanted to change that perception by giving children with special needs a safe space just to be.
Vernon Jackson wanted to do more for his community.
The licensed cosmetologist and author started his dream with the idea of giving barber services to children with disabilities.
His shop, Noble Barber and Beauty, had been receiving such customers.
Jackson was more than willing to give them the accommodations they needed to avail of the service.
When he posted his project on social media, friends began messaging him about how they could be a part of it.
The Gifted Event was born — a project that provides free haircuts for children with various medical conditions.
This is where he encountered 7-year-old Ellison Eubanks.
Ellison has Down syndrome, and for children like him, haircuts can be a challenging experience, especially with the sensations that come along with them.
Jackson shared that the children’s anxieties are triggered by the noise of the clippers or the feeling of shaved hair against their skin, which they described as being pricked with needles.
Jackson knew he had to be caring and patient with Ellison.
In a now-viral TikTok video, the duo has created a routine that can alleviate some of the stress.
Ellison’s mother shared that the routine was tremendously helpful because barber trips with her son aren’t exactly a walk in the park.
She shared with TODAY that she had to bear hug Ellison so that they could get through the session.
With Jackson, however, it was all smiles and laughter.
Their “stop and go” routine was well-received by people.
Jackson shaved Ellison’s hair but the difference was he allowed Ellison to take control. Whenever he says stop, Jackson would lift the clipper off Ellison’s hair. When the kid says go, Jackson continues with his work.
@thebest1periodHey everyone here are a few of the cutest and funniest moments that I’ve experienced with GIFTED To donate or to purchase a book click the link in my bio. Let’s keep smiling!♬ original sound – Author • Barber • Speaker
More than that, Jackson is also generous with encouraging words.
He’d say how awesome Ellison was doing and that he was doing a great job communicating his needs.
The internet was enamored with the duo.
“We need more people like this! As an autistic adult with sensory issues,” said one comment. “I still have my mom do my hair as I can’t deal with stylists and the environment.
@thebest1periodCreate more moments that make us smile harder and longer! To learn more about GIFTED click the link in my bio♬ original sound – Author • Barber • Speaker
“Although the stop and go seemed like a game of sorts, the true gift you were giving (other than fun and connection) was the gift of voice, empowerment, and respect,” said another. “Thank you, Vernon, for listening and engaging with heart.”
Jackson also provided Ellison’s family with more than just a haircut.
Julie Eubanks said Jackson provided them with a safe space as Jackson treated them just like any other client.
It was a space where she never felt judged or pitied.
“I’m so blessed to be in a position to relieve that stress and anxiety for them,” Jackson told TODAY.
“It’s a haircut — it shouldn’t have to be traumatic.”
Watch how this barber went viral after showing how he worked with a special-needs child.
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