Dreadlocking can be a tough journey, period. Adding kids to the equation only complicates matters. The easiest way to help your child make this transition is to at least have undergone it yourself. Nothing irritates me more than seeing a parent experimenting on their child. If you yourself aren't natural, but insist that your child never relax her hair, there's a problem. If you yourself don't have dreads, then how can you rightly impose this "lifestyle" on your child?

Now some would argue, "They're my kids and I can do what I want." True, you can. But in this day and age where not fitting in can and has lead to significant psychological and societal troubles amongst kids, you'd be doing yourself, your child and society a favor by making sure he/she has the coping skills needed to deal with such a major change.


Kids need positive role models. What better role model than you? Although you may have a little hellian
running around your home, I guarantee that your child is learning from the examples you set. Even if they rebel in later years, the foundation you established in their youth will remain relatively stable and intact. The best way to insure that their house is built on solid rock is to practice what you preach. Therefore, if you've always wanted your kids to have natural hair or Dreadlocks, you should first embark on this journey yourself.

Photo courtesy of Natty Dreadz of New York Salon.  Visit NattyDreadz.com Online!