As a pediatrician and a parent, I often find myself reflecting on the perceptions surrounding children’s hairstyles. In my experience, people frequently mistake my sons for girls due to their long hair. When this happens, I gently clarify with pronouns like “he” or “him,” and while most strangers are embarrassed, I reassure them, “It’s perfectly fine.” It’s an expected part of having boys with flowing locks.
I’ve always appreciated long hair on men, having encouraged past partners to let their hair grow. Consequently, when I had my sons, I was determined to foster a similar style. My eldest son initially put a twist in my plans; he was born with little hair and remained bald for quite some time. Eventually, his hair began to grow, but not in the way I anticipated. It took on a wild, fuzzy appearance reminiscent of a young Einstein. In contrast, my middle son’s hair grew perfectly straight and now cascades past his shoulders, while my youngest is cultivating a delightful array of beachy curls.
Despite my enthusiasm, family sentiments differ. My mother and in-laws often voice their preference for more traditional haircuts. My in-laws are polite about it, but my mother openly expresses her desire to take the boys for a trim. These opinions stem from conventional gender norms, where short hair is deemed appropriate for boys, and long hair is reserved for girls. I choose to disregard these outdated notions.
I’ve faced various critiques regarding my boys’ hairstyles. Once, someone remarked that they looked unkempt; while I chuckled it off, I later recognized that a simple trim can keep hair healthy without sacrificing length. After a tough decision, I trimmed my oldest son’s hair to help it grow out better. Though it was a bittersweet moment for me, he was pleased with the result and is determined to grow it long again.
The most important factor is that my sons genuinely like their hair. My oldest is adamant about growing it out further, and my middle son, with his surfer-inspired locks, proudly informs others that he’s aiming for knee-length. The youngest isn’t quite old enough to express his preferences, but when he is, I’ll respect his wishes. If he desires shorter hair, I will support him, albeit with some emotional pangs on my part.
My middle son understands that maintaining long hair requires effort; we have to be mindful of what may get tangled in it. If something gets stuck, a bath with washing and conditioning follows. Each morning, I brush his hair, sometimes styling it with a straightening iron, and he claims to enjoy the process.
Occasionally, other kids mistake them for girls, or question why “the girls” are wearing Star Wars shirts. We correct them, and most understand. Thankfully, my sons have yet to encounter any unkind remarks about their hair. Perhaps it’s due to changing societal norms or the circles we inhabit.
Ultimately, I cherish their long, silky locks, as they signify self-expression and individuality. It’s their choice, not dictated by societal standards. Their hair is not just long; it’s a beautiful representation of who they are, and I believe that’s wonderful.
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Summary
Embracing long hair for my sons has fostered their self-expression and individuality, despite societal expectations and family opinions. Their hair symbolizes who they are, and I support their choices wholeheartedly.