Caring for the Hair of your
Adopted Black Child
NOVEMBER 2023 NEWSLETTER
Coultural Awarness
Parents of a different race or culture who adopt Black children find out that Black hair is a big deal. Some feel that Black hair should not be this important with so many other issues going on, but in a Western world, Black hair draws attention naturally. Your child’s Black experience here will shape how they desire to wear their hair.
Keeping your child’s Black hair maintained is not vain, but necessary. It gives them confidence in a world that doesn’t always represent them in a positive light. Steps to make a difference:
1. Help them avoid forming
stigmas and negative
openions about Black hair.
2. Develop camaraderie with
other Black children so they
can learn about other Black
hair types.
3. Help them embrace their
individuality so they do not
resent the differences
between their hair and their
family members' hair
(especially if it's
considered the "western
standard").
Suggestions for parents to make the journey enjoyable:
1. The Key elements to look for in Black hair care products are: Moisture, Hydration, Softening/Detangling, Oils, and Ingredients that support healthy growth. Don’t fall into the trap of thinking you have to use all-natural products. All-Natural products only work well for certain black hair types. If your child’s hair is unresponsive to all-natural products, it is perfectly fine to use products with natural ingredients that are safe and well-made. 2. Determine the easiest way for you to maintain your child’s hair according to their activities and your lifestyle. 3. Learn the basic upkeep for hairstyles (natural, silk-outs, relaxers, twists, braids, locks, or haircuts). 4. While YOU are learning, also TEACH your child how to do their own hair. Social media tutorials are very useful, but make sure it is a healthy technique.