An Investigation of Black Caregivers’ Responses to Their Children During Hair Routines

Black children face hair discrimination and bias in schools for wearing their hair in its natural state and in protective styles (Essien & Wood, 2021; Joseph-Salisbury & Connelly, 2018; Hussett-Richardson, 2023). Hair discrimination and bias can cause Black children to be disengaged from school, feel insecure, and dislike their hair (Oney et al., 2011, Woolford et al., 2016; O-Brien-Richardson, 2019). Although hair discrimination and bias can have negative effects on Black children, hair routines can act as a protective factor and allow children to flourish despite experiencing discrimination (Ferretti & Bub, 2017). Therefore, this study investigated how caregivers responded to their children during hair routines. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with caregivers and children, separately. Additionally, some hair routines were observed virtually while others were pre-recorded. The analysis showed that there were 8 ways that caregivers responded to their children: 1) Adjusting routines, 2) Continuing conversations, 3) Apologizing, 4) Ignoring, 5) Honoring children’s choices, 6) Offering Breaks, 7) Checking In, and 8) Bringing in other family members. It is concluded that hair routines are a viable context for understanding the relationship between Black caregivers and their children. The results are analyzed and discussed in regard to implications for creating more culturally affirming learning environments for Black students.