Instead of detangling spray you can also use conditioner diluted with water in a spray bottle, easy & cheap.
I would suggest too to let them brush their hair themselves. I cut my 9yr old hair for exactly this reason. Too much drama, not worthed.

My daughter was the same. I bought a detangling spray and tried to do hairstyles that were relatively quick to avoid too much drama. She got to about 11-12 and decided she wanted it shorter. Broke my heart, and the hairdressers, but she managed it herself by then

I’d be encouraging them to brush their own hair and then plaiting it for the day. I’d also brush their hair again before bed and then another plait for sleeping. You can also purchase de-tangler which you spray in their hair before brushing.

See if you can encourage them to brush it themselves . I think if they are old enough old enough to feed themselves , it is a way to also learn more motor skills .

If they are old enough show them how to brush their own hair . My daughter used to love showing her independence early and looking after herself from 3 onwards. As soon as they start showing a hint independence , start training them and then you will have bit less to do later on . ( only a bit )

Braids and plaits are a great idea love it!

ah lol, story of my life. the girls’ love their long hair but never want it brushed either. De-tangle spray is a must plus we have these brushes called tangleez or something. They get tangles out no worries but i still need a decent brush to get my kid’s hair styled so keep your brushes lol. Also if it is the holiday or long weekend etc, try to plait or braid their hair which will help to prevent knots and give them a break from having their hair brushed for a few days lol.

Thank you for all your comments, am going to try a few

Brushing my daughters hair use to end in tears and tantrums!! I always use leave in detangling conditioner and a tangle teaser brush….highly recommend .You can buy the brushes from some hairdressers or priceline.

I put a small amount of hair conditioner in a spray bottle and then filled it up with water. Spray onto hair and knots just disappear and so does the whinging.

Have you got a tangle teaser? You can brush the knottiest hair and it won’t hurt them. I bought one from a major retailer but they are sold at hairdressers (for a lot more money). Spray in conditioner or leave in conditioner might also work.

My 3 year old daughter hates me brushing her hair. It is super fine so it gets tangled quite easily and is really hard to tie up. I wish she would quit the whining too. I use a spray on conditioner/detangler, but she whinges before I even start.