Linda, I’m glad you mentioned this. For a lot of blacks, this has absolutely nothing at all to do with trying to fit in, grow up, or resemble another culture. My dad raised me. His trying to comb my hair brought countless tears and screams from me and plenty of frustration on his part as well. I think he finally caved when I was 4 or 5 and got me a "curl." Very similar to a relaxer. I believe you’d call it a perm. Anyway, that was one the best things he’s ever done for me. I graduated to a relaxer in high school, and now I have nice long dreads. My hair is too unmanageable and my scalp painful in its natural state to consider other options. You do what you need to do for you and your child. My relaxer hairdresser and I researched Knottyboy.com for mine. Surprisingly, they are perfect now though started unprofessionally and kept up by only my will and determination. I don’t use products anymore. And, I only twist them when I wash them. I’d probably advise you to seek out a professional if you are interested. The process can be painful, but there are a few different methods to starting them. You can check the knottyboy website for potential stylists in your area. I will tell you that it is a long lengthy process. But once they’ve matured, its certainly worth it. Good luck with your little girl!  :)