Helping Children Build Confidence in Their Natural Hair

For many children, hair is more than just hair—it’s a reflection of identity, culture, and self-expression. For Black and African American children in particular, their natural hair can become a source of pride or insecurity depending on how it’s celebrated and discussed at home and in the community. As parents, caregivers, and role models, we play a powerful role in shaping how children view their natural hair. By instilling confidence early, we give them the strength to love who they are, embrace their heritage, and push back against harmful beauty standards.

1. Speak Positively About Their Hair

Children absorb the language we use about their appearance. Instead of framing natural hair as “difficult” or “unmanageable,” describe it as strong, versatile, and beautiful. Compliment their curls, coils, or braids with words that celebrate uniqueness and pride.

2. Expose Them to Positive Representation

Representation matters. Read books, watch shows, and introduce them to role models who wear their natural hair proudly. Seeing characters, celebrities, and community leaders with similar textures reinforces that their hair is not only normal but powerful.

3. Make Hair Care a Positive Experience

Turn hair care into bonding time rather than a chore. Play music, talk, or tell stories while styling their hair. A calm, loving environment helps children connect their natural hair with comfort and confidence instead of stress.

4. Teach Them How to Care for Their Hair

As children grow, involve them in their hair care routine. Show them how to moisturize, detangle, and style their hair. Giving them ownership over their hair builds independence and helps them feel proud of managing it.

5. Share the Cultural Significance

Teach children the history and cultural pride behind natural hairstyles—braids, twists, afros, locs, and more. Understanding the roots of these styles gives them a deeper connection to their heritage and a sense of belonging.

6. Model Confidence Yourself

Children mirror what they see. If you wear your natural hair with confidence and pride, they’ll be more likely to do the same. Share stories about your own journey of embracing your hair—it makes the lesson real and relatable.

7. Encourage Expression and Creativity

Allow children to experiment with hairstyles that make them feel happy and confident, whether that’s wearing puffs, braids, or trying colorful beads and accessories. Celebrating their individuality helps them see their hair as a form of self-expression.

Final Thoughts

Instilling confidence in how children view their natural hair is about more than appearance—it’s about nurturing self-love and resilience. When children feel good about their hair, they carry that pride into how they see themselves as a whole. With positivity, representation, and patience, we can help them stand tall, knowing that their natural hair is a crown they should always wear proudly.

📚 Children’s Books That Celebrate Natural Hair

“Hair Love” by Matthew A. Cherry

A touching story of a dad learning to style his daughter’s natural hair, showing love, patience, and pride in natural beauty.

“Hair Say” by Anisha Danielson

HAIR SAY is a phenomenal story about a young Black girl's pride in her complex heritage and natural hair. From the shores of mankind's beginnings to the space between her mother's loving lap, this radiant girl explains to her curious friends the long and winding journey that her ancestors took to bring her into being, and just how and why her crown of coiled hair grows so uniquely. But be warned - you can look, but don't touch, because her hair means so much!

“I Love My Hair!” by Natasha Anastasia Tarpley

A joyful book about a little girl who embraces the beauty and uniqueness of her hair with the support of her mom.

“Crown: An Ode to the Fresh Cut” by Derrick Barnes

While focused on haircuts, this book captures the pride and confidence that comes from embracing Black identity and style.

“Don’t Touch My Hair!” by Sharee Miller

A fun and empowering story that teaches children about boundaries, self-respect, and embracing their natural curls.

“My Hair” by Hannah Lee

A vibrant picture book showcasing different natural hairstyles that children wear proudly for a party.

“Big Hair, Don’t Care” by Crystal Swain-Bates

A playful story about a confident little girl who loves her big, beautiful hair no matter what others say.

“Daddy Do My Hair?” by Tola Okogwu

A sweet book that celebrates the bond between a father and daughter while highlighting natural hair care and creativity.

📺 Children’s Shows That Highlight Natural Hair

“Doc McStuffins” (Disney Junior)

The main character, Doc, proudly wears her natural hair in braids and puffs, providing a positive role model for young kids.

“Ada Twist, Scientist” (Netflix)

Ada wears her natural hair with pride while exploring science, curiosity, and problem-solving.

“Karma’s World” (Netflix)

Created by Ludacris, this show features a confident young Black girl with natural hair who uses music and creativity to solve problems.

“Motown Magic” (Netflix)

This show highlights Black culture and music, with characters shown wearing natural hairstyles.

“Gracie’s Corner” (YouTube)

An animated musical series created by a Black family, often featuring characters with natural hair while teaching educational lessons.

✨ Together, these books and shows help normalize natural hair, reinforce cultural pride, and give children positive examples of characters who look like them!