How to Care for Your Child’s Natural Hair: A Simple Guide for Parents and Caregivers
There isn’t a week that goes by where we don’t hear from parents or caregivers saying:
“I just want to know what to do with my child’s hair.”
We get it. Children’s hair care stumps a lot of folks. And when you’re already juggling school drop-offs, meals, bedtime routines, and everything in between, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed or unsure about how to care for their natural hair the right way.
At Black Girl Curls, our goal is always to help you keep things simple, intentional, and stress-free. So, let’s walk through what really matters when caring for your child’s natural hair.
First—Take a Deep Breath
You’re doing a great job.
These children didn’t come with manuals, and we’re all learning as we go. You and your child are exploring new terrain together—so give yourself grace as you both navigate this part of the journey.
Make Hair Time a Positive Experience
This is your opportunity to build a healthy, loving relationship around their hair.
Speak positively about their texture. Celebrate their curls. Use words that affirm how beautiful, magical, and unique their hair is. Your voice is the first one they’ll internalize about their hair—make it one that builds confidence.
Lead with Patience, Not Perfection
Every child is different. And you can’t set a routine until you observe what your child actually needs.
Do they dislike having water on their scalp?
Is detangling uncomfortable or overstimulating?
Do they struggle with sitting still for extended periods?
All of these observations matter. They help you create a routine that’s responsive, not rigid. And that kind of routine is much more sustainable for both of you.
Keep It Simple—Especially in the Beginning
Dolls pictured are Healthy Roots Dolls
Your first instinct might be to focus on learning a specific hairstyle—but styling should come second to building a solid foundation.
For the first few weeks, we recommend focusing only on:
Cleansing
Conditioning
One go-to style that’s gentle and manageable
That’s it. Simplicity is key while you’re still learning your child’s hair—and while they’re learning to trust the process too.
Consider Your Lifestyle
Your routine should match your life.
If your mornings are hectic or your child has a sensitive scalp, it’s okay to shampoo less often or stick to a protective style that lasts a bit longer.
There’s no “perfect” schedule—only what works for your energy, your time, and your child’s needs.
Give Yourself (and Your Child) Some Grace
We know there’s this unspoken expectation about how children “should” look—and how their hair “should” be done. But let’s be real:
That standard doesn’t always match your energy levels, your schedule, or your capacity.
Your child’s hair doesn’t need to be perfectly styled at all times to be well cared for. What matters most is that it’s clean, healthy, and handled with love.
Need Help Creating a Routine That Works?
We created The Children’s Styling & Product Guide just for you.
It’s designed to take the guesswork out of your child’s hair care with:
Step-by-step tutorials
Thoughtful product recommendations
Guidance that applies to children from birth through the teen years
Whether you're working with coils, curls, or tight waves—this beginner-friendly guide is here to take the stress out of wash day and help you feel more confident, prepared, and at ease.
Use code KIDSHAIR at checkout to save $10 on your copy of the guide.
