Henry “Tribes” Amoloja runs a sensory-friendly barbershop called The Weighted Cape that specializes in haircuts for neurodivergent children. And when it comes to making kids feel comfortable, he’s got a few tricks up his sleeve.
“Oh, you’re a touchy guy, you’re going to love this spiky thing,” Amoloja said as he handed 4-year-old Jai a studded fidget toy that helps relieve pressure.
He then showed CBS News his full arsenal: a big box of fidget spinners and play toys, a weighted stuffed animal named Trimmy, quiet clippers, talcum powder to prevent hair from sticking to skin, and his trademark weighted capes.
"Everyone isn't attuned to the needs of kids with autism and their sensory needs,” said Lauren Quinn, Jai's mother, adding that Amoloja has been flexible from the start.
“He can take 30 minutes or he can take an hour,” said Jai’s father, Dr. Lamar Quinn. “He builds that in, and that’s how he’s allowed to meet the child where he’s at. We love that about the experience, because our Jai is able to be himself.”
Amoloja, who lives in downtown Dallas, believes that every child deserves a great haircut without fear. All it takes is a little patience.
“It’s easily become the most fulfilling thing I’m doing in my career,” he said. “I’m hoping that what we’re doing in the hair industry can translate into other industries.”
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A version of this article originally appeared in the 2026 Mental Health Edition of the Goodnewspaper.
Header image via The Weighted Cape
