Try it in 2 plaits all the time. My DD2 has really thick hair & as soon as its at shoulder length its a nightmare. I don't let them wear it out if we leave the house. If they do wear it out, I'll wash & condition it before I brush it. I have occasionally used the 2 in 1 kids shampoo's in DD2's hair, but thats not enough. If we use that, we still need conditioner after.

When I brush, I start at the ends of her hair & work my way to the top. Then I seperate her hair, starting at the bottom layer & working my way, again to the top.