Don't Touch My Hair

Aria loves her big, bouncy hair but becomes frustrated when people constantly try to touch it without permission. She encounters this unwanted attention everywhere she goes, from the playground to the grocery store. She tries various methods to keep people from touching her hair, taking more and more extreme measures to avoid the unwanted contact. Her attempts lead her through increasingly imaginative scenarios as she seeks a solution. The story chronicles Aria's journey to find her voice and set boundaries while still embracing who she is. Through vibrant illustrations and straightforward storytelling, the book follows her path to self-advocacy. This picture book addresses personal boundaries, bodily autonomy, and cultural respect through the specific lens of Black hair. The narrative opens discussions about consent and self-expression while celebrating natural hair.

Parents and educators say this book helps teach young children about personal boundaries and bodily autonomy in an accessible way. The rhyming text and colorful illustrations keep kids engaged while delivering the message. Readers liked: - Clear message about consent and personal space - Relatable for children with curly/textured hair - Opens discussions about respecting differences - Empowers kids to speak up for themselves Readers disliked: - Some found the main character's reactions too aggressive - A few mentioned the message could be clearer about when touching hair is okay (like at the hairdresser) Ratings: Goodreads: 4.3/5 (2,100+ ratings) Amazon: 4.8/5 (1,800+ ratings) "Perfect for teaching bodily autonomy to preschoolers," noted one teacher reviewer. A parent wrote, "My daughter finally felt seen and now has words to use when people try to touch her hair." The book resonates particularly with Black families but reviewers say the lessons apply universally to all children.

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🌟 Author Sharee Miller was inspired to write this book after experiencing countless strangers touching her hair without permission throughout her life 🎨 The vibrant illustrations show Aria, the main character, imagining fantastical scenarios where her hair is sought after by mermaids, aliens, and even astronauts 👧🏾 The book addresses bodily autonomy and consent in a way that's accessible to young children while celebrating natural Black hair 📚 This picture book has become a popular teaching tool in elementary schools for discussing personal boundaries and respect 🏆 "Don't Touch My Hair" was named one of the Best Picture Books of 2018 by School Library Journal and earned a place on several notable children's book lists