SINGAPORE, June 21 — Two stay‑at‑home fathers have launched a hands‑on workshop to teach other dads how to style their daughters’ hair, hoping to boost confidence, challenge caregiving stereotypes and create new ways for fathers to bond with their children.
The initiative, called Dads and Braids, was founded by longtime friends Jeggan Rajendram and Rukshan Chiththananda. According to CNA Lifestyle, the pair began running sessions in April after realising many fathers wanted to be more involved in their daughters’ daily routines but lacked the skills or confidence to start.
Each 1.5‑hour workshop brings together a small group of dads who practise on mannequin heads while learning basic ponytails, twin braids, criss‑cross styles and simple accessorising. Food, drinks and a relaxed setting help keep the atmosphere light as participants swap tips, laugh at their early attempts and gradually build up their technique.
The idea grew out of Rajendram’s own experience. After leaving a senior role at Meta due to burnout, he took a bonding trip with his elder daughter — only to discover he could barely manage a neat ponytail. Determined to improve, he turned to Rukshan, who had also recently left his job to become a full‑time caregiver and had been teaching himself to style his daughter’s hair.
Their shared learning journey soon drew curiosity from other fathers, many of whom admitted they avoided doing their daughters’ hair because they feared being judged or ridiculed. The workshop, the founders say, is designed as a “safe space” where dads can start as beginners without embarrassment.
Participants told CNA that even small improvements made a big difference at home — from daughters feeling proud to wear “Daddy’s hairstyle” to spouses feeling supported by a more equal sharing of caregiving tasks. Some fathers said the sessions helped shift long‑held assumptions about gender roles, showing that everyday parenting skills should not fall solely on mothers.
The next Dads and Braids sessions are scheduled for July 10 and 24. Fees cover materials, including a tutorial sheet, hair accessories and a customised pink T‑shirt for each daughter that reads: “Daddy Did My Hair”.
