Three out of four of my children were born blonde. And, I’ve always loved to let their hair grow really long. Since each of them were little, I’ve received question after question about their sunny locks—what I do to care for them, how I prevent tangles, etc. It’s no secret that I love their hair (especially my little blondies), and I encourage them to love it, too. They almost always wear it down, and we never really change or alter it besides the occasional braid or bun. Birdie has only had one haircut when she was two—I gave her bangs—that’s it! I think my kids have an organic appreciation for their strands. I love their hair, so they do, too.

It’s important to set a positive example (even for something as seemingly trivial as a child’s hair), as there can be such a narrow depiction of what makes hair beautiful. In fact, Dove found that 8 in 10 women feel pressure to wear their hair a certain way, many of these ideas beginning at an early age. That says a lot. Like me, Dove believes that having a positive role model can drastically impact a girl’s confidence. As a mother, I want nothing more than for Birdie (and Sailor, and all of my children) to love every part of themselves. So at the end of the day, whether it’s brunette or blonde, cut long or short, I just always want them to feel comfortable in their own skin.

Here are a few photos of Birdie and I (and a few of Sailor, too) talking all things hair. If you have a daughter, or a young girl in your life, don’t forget to inspire her to love her hair, too.

Let’s show our girls how beautiful their hair truly is. Add a special touch to one of your photos with Dove. Create and share your custom animated message by visiting LoveYourHair.Dove.com!

This post is in partnership with Dove.