There are already a large range of replies but I had to throw in my two cents.
I come from a family that has more cutural diversity than the UN (aa, cc, fijian, mexican and philipino...just to name the majority). There are a lot of terms used within the family that in the more sensitive outside world would be considered offensive (absolutely none derogatory or mean). Though I haven't heard anyone use fro-baby I could easily picture one of my uncles calling one of my aa nieces their "fro-babies". I do know one of the younger girls is nicknamed Kizzy-Puff...refering to her ponytail that is ever present since she won't sit still for any other hair style.
I think that family/nicknames used in a loving and non-hurtful way are totally different than a stranger using the same terms. I called one of my aa cousins to get her take on "fro-baby" and was laughed at. She couldn't figure out why it would be such a big deal.
I guess my bottom line is...the inappropriateness (sp?) of words and nicknames depends a lot on the person and emotions behind them.
Leisha
Learner of Life
Taught by Three Boys
Active Duty Military
One Day Adoptive Parent