TikTok Tutorials Inspire Dads to Learn to Braid Daughters' Hair

USA TODAY
USA TODAYMar 15, 2026

Why It Matters

The phenomenon signals a shift in parenting norms driven by social media: content is enabling fathers to take on intimate caregiving roles and creating new markets for instructional parenting content and related products. It also demonstrates how viral, practical tutorials can create tight-knit communities with real emotional and social impact.

Summary

Short TikTok tutorials teaching classic three-strand braids have inspired a surge of fathers learning to braid their daughters’ hair, reframing a mundane morning task as an opportunity for connection. Videos show dads coaching each other through technique and troubleshooting common hurdles, like getting children to sit still. The “dad braids” community has generated a steady stream of messages and supportive tips, and creators report the experience as deeply meaningful. The trend highlights practical skill-sharing on social media and growing visibility for hands-on fatherhood.

Original Description

Strider Patton started the TikTok "Dad Braids" in 2024 to show his morning routine braiding his daughter's hair. The idea turned into a movement.
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