possible way
Go to the hairdressers
Managing your child's hair takes time and attention, and nowadays parents just can't fit in the daily routine of combing, greasing and blowdrying into their busy schedule. This is where hairdressers can step in and take the burden. 'I think parents should take their child to a professional hairstylist at least every three or four months to have their hair conditioned and trimmed,' enthuses celebrity stylist, Marcia Hamilton. 'Afro hair tends to get very dry quickly which can lead to breakage when it is combed, which can all prohibit growth.'
Styles suitable for kids
In the past decade more kiddie relaxers have come onto the market sparking the debate of what age should a child's hair be relaxed. Hamilton believes that those under twelve should not have this chemical treatment. 'If the child is not yet a teenager it shouldn't be carried out because the hair structure has not fully developed.' When it comes to other methods of styling, all types of pressure (such as heat and tight braids) should be minimised. 'Over my years I've noticed children who get their hair pulled too tightly have started to develop traction alopecia around the perimeter of their head,' says Hamilton. 'If your child wears braids be more gentle around the hairline and make bigger sections. Try different styles to avoid putting too much pressure on one point and to avoid traction alopecia.'
Products for children's hair
Paying a hairdresser can work out to be expensive so Hamilton suggests researching and familiarising yourself with the best kiddie products. She does not endorse any specific brand, but she has advice about the ingredients you should out look for. 'Because your child's hair is so gentle and sensitive, you should use sulphate-free shampoos and moisturising conditioners so that the natural oils aren't stripped out of the hair.'
Encouraging self-expression
It can be hard for parents to admit that their child is growing up and to forget that one of the vestiges to maturing is self expression. 'In 2011 I think a girl should be as expressive as she wants to be,' explains Hamilton. 'As parents we sometimes impose on our kids what we feel and think, but it's important to listen to them and keep an open mind. If they're at an age where they want to dye their hair flaming red then try to find a middle ground by proposing streaks instead. Similarly if your daughter wants a weave down her back but is too young, suggest braids which will be more appropriate for her age. I definitely encourage parents to find some way that their kids can express themselves in beauty, so they can feel comfortable and proud of who they are,' concludes Hamilton.
I love my hair
In October 2010 the I Love My Hair song debuted on an episode of Sesame Street. The unnamed puppet that sang an ode to her afro became an internet sensation. Joey Mazzarino, the head writer of Sesame Street, was inspired to write the song for his adopted Ethiopian daughter, who he noticed had reservations about her hair. Hamilton sees a correlation between hair and self-esteem. She says: 'With your kids, you always need to let them know that what they possess is beautiful. Work with what they have instead of trying to get something totally different, and remember to teach them to love their own hair and themselves.
Marcia Hamilton
Quoted as the go to 'It girl' for hair, Marcia has celebrities flocking to her style chair in abundance. Not only is she responsible for Willow Smith's creatively outlandish Mohawks, she is also the force behind Lady Gaga, Kim Kardashian and the William sisters. To find out more about Marcia visit www.marciahamilton.com.
