In many African homes and schools, a child’s hair often sparks debate.
Some believe that leaving hair to grow shows a lack of discipline, while others see it as a symbol of pride and identity.
The truth is, an African child wearing their natural hair is not being undisciplined — they are simply embracing who they are.
Discipline is not measured by how short a child’s hair is, but by how well they learn to care for it.
Growing natural hair requires effort — washing, oiling, combing and maintaining neatness.
These daily routines teach children patience, responsibility and self-respect.
In fact, allowing children to manage their hair helps them build habits of cleanliness and order, which are the true signs of discipline.
Sadly, many girls are made to believe that keeping their natural hair is untidy or unacceptable.
Over time, this thinking pushes them to depend on wigs and artificial hair, costing families money and disconnecting children from their African roots.
Letting children grow their hair does not promote laziness — it teaches care, confidence and cultural pride. It reminds them that beauty and discipline can go hand in hand.
When African children are taught to love and manage their natural hair, they not only look good but also learn to value their identity, their culture and themselves.
Abban Stanley,
MPhil. Economics/social reformer.
E-mail: Stanicorn00@gmail.com
