While I love children, I typically prefer that my clients do not bring them to their appointment.  I explain to them that this time is meant for them and that they won’t be able to enjoy the full experience if they are having to supervise their kiddos. Most of the time a parent knows if her child can stay occupied with a tablet or toy. Occasionally I will make an exception. Overall, I feel that the salon isn’t an ideal environment for kids. It’s also respectful to other clients receiving services who may not want a child around during their experience.  
Rachael Waggoner, Dazzling Digits 3D Nails, Lakewood, Colo.

I do have a “No Children” policy and it is working fine. Children do things naturally without thinking about the effects of what they have done, so they will just deface an object in an instant. Also, parents see their kids misbehaving, e.g., ripping at the upholstery on the chair arm and they do not stop the child; only when I utter something then they may apologize. However, they say “sorry” and leave the salon after their service, and I am left with a torn chair and a bill to have it repaired. My “No Children” policy was implemented about four years ago, and now the parents know, so I do not always have to repeat it. If a new customer comes in with a child I let her know the policy and that is usually enough.
Kandis Jacob-Alexander, Kandis Beyond Basics Nail Spa, Sudama Alley, Trinidad West Indies

Other than a child receiving services (accompanied by an adult), I do not welcome children in the salon. The main reasons are for the child’s safety and for the sake of the sanity of our clients. The salon has equipment, chemicals, etc., that are potential hazards. Kids are curious — they want to experience, explore, and touch everything, and they also have a short attention span so they are easily bored. While some can be entertained with a movie or video game, not all behave well. The salon is not a day care service; it should be a break from life for your client. If your client is coming to get her nails done, she is expecting to relax and pamper herself. By maintaining a no-child policy, you are providing that perfect needed escape, and creating the experience she wants. It contributes to a professional image of the salon, the business, and the brand, and increases the one-on-one attention and focus the client deserves.
Katy Lambson, Sugar N Spice Nail Salon, Saratoga Springs, Utah

I’ve had a “no children” policy for more than 15 years and it’s worked out fabulously for my sanity! On my initial visit with a new client, I casually bring into the conversation that this is a peaceful “child-free” salon, and it’s unreasonable to expect small children to sit quietly for an hour. I explain that when their hands are busy tending to the childs’ needs — such as drinks, restroom/diapers, snacks, toys, etc.  — then that means I have less time to complete her nail service on schedule. Once I spell out how unfair it is to penalize all the subsequent clients by me running late into their appointment time, then the client understands. I keep emphasizing that the focus of a salon visit is relaxation for all the clients, including the nail tech, too! Life’s short, I’m self-employed,  and  I shouldn’t have to be miserable in my own place of business. No amount of money is worth that!
Jill Wright, Jill’s-A Place for Nails, Bowling Green, KY

I personally don't have an issue with kids in the salon, as we are a child-friendly salon. While we only have three people working at once, most kids bring tablets and that keeps them busy. We have plenty of space for them to get comfy. At one point or another each of us has had our kids (my granddaughter, for example) in the salon. Other clients don't mind because the kids are well behaved.
Kathy Kovacic, Hera Beauty, Las Vegas

Next question:

What are your resolutions for 2016?  [Answers will be printed in the January 2016 issue.] Share your opinion on the topic by e-mailing your response by October 15 to Tracy.Rubert@bobit.com. Please include your name, salon, city and state, and a high-resolution headshot with your response.