I Love My Hair!
2012
London, my best friend’s daughter, was thrilled to start preschool last year. I still remember photos of her first day, grinning ear to ear, confidently entering her new school thirsty for knowledge.
But as each day passed, her attitude changed. She started seeing differences between herself and her classmates and she didn’t like what she saw.
Each day, she asked the same heartbreaking questions. “Mommy, why isn’t my skin as light as Maria’s skin?” “Why is Amber’s hair long and straight and my hair is short and curly?”
She looked at her own collection of dolls – many complexions but not the deep brown that resembled her own. To London, her dolls and classmates were “pretty.” But she was not.
London’s mother continually reminded her that everyone is different and beautiful in his or her own way. Despite these words of encouragement, she was not sure London truly believed this.
As a trainer for RIF’s Literacy Services department, I know how books can help parents tackle difficult topics. Whether it’s bullying, the passing of a loved one, or self-image – books can communicate the words our hearts can’t express. And for parents who are saying the words but not seeing them sink in, books can work wonders.
For London and her mom, one book came to mind — Natasha Tarpley’s, “I Love My Hair!” The story of a little girl who does not feel like her hair is beautiful because of the texture, color, and especially the process of combing it, was something I knew London could see herself in.
In the end, the character comes to understand her own beauty. I hoped London would too.
London and her mom read that book again and again.
By the end of the school year, London was ready for Kindergarten. She could write her name. She knew the pledge of allegiance. But most importantly, she’d discovered love and acceptance of herself and others.
When we finally had a chance to read the book together, I asked for one reason why she loved it so much. She responded: it’s the beads.
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Nikki, Thank you so very much for being in Tameka and London life. It is truly a blessing to know you and your family. You are such a wonderful and caring person. I know that Tameka and London love’s very much and I do too. I hope when London starts the BIG SCHOOL, she will take everything that she has learn from Pre-school with her.
Amazing.. thank you for sharing this and I hope we all continue to share this…
Nikki, I love this post because there are sooooooo many young girls that feel the way London felt who have no one listening or paying attention to their insecurities. It’s a wake-up call reminding us that kids have their struggles too and these kind can potentially have a long-term damaging effect on their life/self esteem. How comforting it is knowing London has such a powerful village helping to raise her up right!
Wonderful article, I applaud you for what you are doing and letting London Be a part of your movement. Your Overall Presence in her Life Along with the Other Phenomal Women She Is Raised around Means Alot, she is Growing to Be a Wonderful Young Lady With an Inspiring Spirit, And I Am Proud To Be Her Father! Thanks Again Nikki!