Veronica used to say she wished her hair was straight and short like her brother Gabriel’s. I would have to try not to laugh as she told me through her sincere blue eyes. She looked up to her brother, and as far as she knew, getting haircuts was the cool thing to do. I would reassure her she was given such lovely curly locks that were a unique family trait passed down to her from her great grandmothers, and that she should be so proud of that.
Fast forward till today and she wishes her hair was long and dark like Rapunzel’s. A more accurate depiction of a 5 year old dream right? I work on confidence in her weekly. Reminding her that there are many types of beauty. Long hair isn’t as important as a kind and compassionate heart. Looking to help others or building up your siblings and friends with kind words is a far greater feature than exterior details. She is learning and responding more as she can now finish my sentences when I ask her, “What is more important than how we look?” Discontentment or comparing starts at such a young age, and I truly believe confidence in her self-worth can stem from catching her thoughts and changing them in a different direction.
(Wearing – Anna: Dress, Veronica: Skirt , Azelie: Bloomers)
A recent Dove study found that 82% of girls learn to care about themselves from their mother. I couldn’t agree more. As a mother, you can make an impactful difference on the way they view themselves. My own mother was such an encouraging voice in me and my own sisters, followed by a support system of other family members and peers who reinforced those values. It taught me how I would pass self-confidence onto my own girls.
This month, you can join us in Dove’s mission to promote hair (and whole person) confidence with a mommy and me #LoveYourHair selfie and tagging @Dove. Let’s show our girls how beautiful their hair truly is. Add a special touch to one of your photos with Dove by visiting LoveYourHair.Dove.com!
Thankful to Dove for partnering on this post, and spreading a message I strongly believe in. Thank you Morgan Blake, for these photos I will hold dear!
