• Make hair taming a more pleasant experience all around.Marcy Maloy/Photodisc/Getty Images
  
  There is an undeniable need for education about maintaining African-American hair, especially for children. Due to a lack of knowledge and difficulty with hair care, perms and texturizers are used at very early ages to ease the strain of styling the hair. Unfortunately, the child is usually too young for such harsh chemical treatments. Proper styling technique can make a world of difference for the children and the parents.
  
  

Ponytails

• For little girls, ponytails range from one to as many as you can handle putting in. Ponytails can be worn braided with hair ornaments or bands that won't get caught in hair, or they can be worn loose. Loose ponytails tangle faster than braided ones, and need some tender loving care at the end of the day.
  
  

Cornrows/Mini Afro

• Cornrows are braided to the scalp. Don't apply a lot of pressure or the hair can suffer breakage. If your child expresses extreme discomfort, opt for something easier. Cornrows can be kept in for several days and will hold the pattern for a mini Afro when taken down. You can also style it into a well-moisturized mini Afro without the cornrows.
  
  

Two Strand Twists

• Twists are another style that leave a pattern in the hair that can be worn when taken down. Two strand twists also keep the hair in a manageable state with minimal tangling and easier combing.
  
  

Locs

• More and more, African-American children are seen with locs. This is a more complex issue, since this style is permanent until you cut all the locked hair off. Consult a hair dresser to help you get started and care for your child's locs. All kids go through stages of asserting their independence with how they look. If locs are something you're considering for the long run, your child's confidence with them is very important.
  
  

Fade

• Once little boys are old enough for the barbershop and they get over the fright of loud buzzing clippers, a fade is easy to maintain. They're sure to enjoy all the different designs they can have cut into their hair to add some personality.