During my pregnancy, I found myself disillusioned during the new mom orientation. They failed to cover a multitude of essential topics. One such oversight was how my choice to let my son’s hair grow long would ignite countless unsolicited opinions from those around me. It’s astonishing how much attention boys’ hairstyles can attract, often resembling a heated debate.
As a mother navigating this territory, I’ve compiled a list of comments that I’ve become weary of hearing:
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“Oh, your daughter is adorable!”
It’s understandable that at the toddler stage, distinguishing gender can be tricky. My son, at two years old, lacks the stereotypical markers of boyhood. Yet, why is it that people assume he’s a girl simply because of his long hair, even when he’s sporting a camo outfit? -
“I called him a girl because he’s so pretty.”
This common response when I correct someone is perplexing. Why is beauty considered a feminine trait? Boys can indeed be beautiful too, and I often tell my son just that. It’s time we move beyond outdated gender norms regarding appearances. -
“Can I touch his hair?”
Newsflash: children are not pets. Asking to touch a child’s hair, regardless of texture, is invasive. As another mom, Sarah, with a curly-haired son shared, the number of requests to touch her boy’s hair is surprising and often leaves her feeling frustrated. -
“He’d look so grown-up with a haircut.”
Let’s be real; he’s two years old. No haircut will magically transform him into a big boy overnight. Toddlers have that unmistakable chubby charm, and there’s no rush to alter that. Soon, someone will ask if he pays his share of the bills! -
Any jokes about a secret haircut.
I’ve encountered loved ones jesting about what would happen if they babysat my son and cut his hair. That’s simple: I’d be furious! Until he can decide for himself, his father and I will determine how he looks. Making light of the matter could cost you your babysitting privileges. -
“When will he get a haircut?”
What’s the timeline for you to take care of your own personal matters? My son’s hair is well-groomed, and he looks as tidy as any other toddler. Questions about his hairstyle are as intrusive as asking someone about their weight or fashion choices. -
“You’ll let him decide when to cut his hair?!”
Empowering children with the ability to make choices about their appearances is a crucial aspect of parenting. For moms of boys with long hair, as long as it works for them, it works for us. As Sarah says, “We won’t cut it unless he wants to. We even have to call it a trim, as he insists, to keep his curls intact.”
I refuse to let societal expectations dictate my son’s expression of masculinity. As long as I maintain his hair and there are no signs of neglect, I don’t require advice. Moms of long-haired boys have it under control.
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In summary, while navigating the challenges of parenting a boy with long hair, it’s crucial to stand firm against unsolicited opinions. As mothers, we are the stewards of our children’s expressions and choices.