In recent years, a growing trend in children’s literature has emerged, with numerous books aimed at young readers celebrating the beauty of natural hair and challenging conventional beauty standards.
Author and illustrator Stacey Schilling finds inspiration striking at unexpected moments. “Sometimes, my best creative ideas come to me while I’m driving or taking a shower,” she shares.
Currently immersed in her latest project, Schilling is diligently crafting the next installments in her series titled “Frizz Girls.”
“I’m currently working on ‘H is for Hairspray,’ and concurrently illustrating the fourth book in the series, focusing on the ABCs of hair care for wavy, curly hair,” she elaborates.
Her initial two books, titled “Stacy Learns to Love Her Wavy Hair, And You Can Too!” and “What the Frizz?!?! How to Take Care of Your Wavy and Curly Hair Find Your Hair Type,” serve as invaluable resources for children and parents alike, guiding them through the intricacies of hair care. Schilling’s personal journey has fueled her passion for this endeavor, leading her to embrace her own identity and hair type.
Despite approximately 65% of the U.S. population having textured hair, Schilling noticed a gap in educational resources for children regarding hair care.
“I wanted to instill confidence in kids, particularly girls aged 5 to 13, empowering them to embrace and care for their hair with pride and self-assurance,” she asserts.
Schilling identifies a significant challenge stemming from the lack of awareness regarding suitable hair products for different textures.
“People often overlook the importance of thoroughly reading product labels to determine compatibility with their hair type,” she observes during a local shopping trip.
Addressing this issue requires education and awareness. “Many individuals fail to recognize the diversity within textured hair, ranging from straight to coily and kinky. By providing a comprehensive hair type chart, individuals can accurately assess their hair needs,” she explains.
Schilling emphasizes that her book caters to anyone who hasn’t received proper guidance on hair care, aiming to equip the next generation with essential knowledge to avoid common pitfalls.
“I never received guidance on caring for my wavy, curly hair,” she reflects, highlighting the significance of education in fostering a positive relationship with one’s hair. “Had I known better, I would have approached hair care differently.”
Through her insightful children’s books, Schilling endeavors to promote inclusivity, self-acceptance, and confidence among young readers, fostering a generation that embraces the beauty of natural hair with pride.
