Black Hair:
Cultural Norms

Fresh Hair vs. End of the Day Hair White foster and adoptive parents of Black children may be unfamiliar with Black hair care norms. While it may seem minor, hair care plays a significant role in shaping your child’s experience as a Black person in America.

 If you are a foster or adoptive parent of a Black child and are often approached by Black women offering their hairstylist’s information, don’t be offended—there’s a good chance they believe you may need support in maintaining your child’s hair. In the Black community, there are times when children’s hair may look unkempt, such as after playing or sports. However, each culture has a different perspective on what proper upkeep looks like. What may be considered unkempt hair in the Black community can often look fine to White people. Some may not even notice the difference between styled and unstyled Black hair. That’s why it’s important to continue to get the education you need to learn the differences.

 There is no shame in not knowing how to care for your Black child’s hair, especially if it differs from your own. Black parents also face challenges, as children can have a variety of hair textures. Still, in the Black community, unkempt hair is often frowned upon, so many take the time to learn and teach their children how to care for it.

 Even Black celebrities and athletes have experienced hair-related shaming. Your child may encounter this as well, and you may not always be aware when it happens. Younger children often suffer in silence because they lack the words to express how it affects them. Learning how to care for your child’s hair not only prepares them but also creates a meaningful bond as you pass that knowledge on. You’ve got this!