Mixed baby hair help!??

Ka

My son will be two in November. His dad is African American and I am white with very curly hair so his hair is more like African American hair if that makes sense it’s very thick and VERY curly. He absolutely refuses to let me brush it! Most days I have to brush it in the bath with conditioner in it just so he won’t run away but he SCREAMS and it breaks my heart. Nothing I do (distracting with popsicle or tv or book or toy or tablet) works and I’m wondering if anyone has any advice for me??? Btw I also put hair lotion or leave in conditioner in it every day.