17 Cute and Easy Braid Hairstyles for Kids

Braiding kids’ hair isn’t just about styling; it’s a way to keep their hair neat and protected while adding a touch of fun and creativity to their look. Braids are perfect for busy parents because they are low maintenance, last for days, and can be styled in many cute ways. 

In this article, we will showcase 17 adorable and easy braid hairstyles for kids that you can try at home. These styles are practical and versatile, making them ideal for school, playdates, special occasions, and everything in between.

1. Classic Three-Strand Braid

The classic three-strand braid is a timeless hairstyle that’s easy to create and perfect for everyday wear. It involves dividing the hair into three equal sections and alternately crossing the outer sections over the middle one. This simple braid keeps hair tidy and is great for any hair length or texture.

How to Create a Classic Three-Strand Braid

1. Start by brushing the hair to remove any tangles.
2. Divide the hair into three equal sections.
3. Cross the right section over the middle section.
4. Next, cross the left section over the new middle section.
5. Repeat this process, alternating sides, until you reach the end of the hair.
6. Secure the braid with a hair tie.

Tips for Keeping it Neat

• Use a small amount of hair gel or spray to control flyaways.
• Secure any loose strands with bobby pins.
• For a more polished look, start with damp hair.

Ideal for

• Everyday wear.
• School days.
• Casual outings.

2. French Braid

The French braid is a stylish and elegant option that keeps hair secure and out of the face. It’s similar to the classic braid but involves adding small sections of hair as you go, creating a woven effect that lies close to the scalp.

How to Create a French Braid

1. Start by brushing the hair to remove any tangles.
2. Take a small section of hair from the top center of the head and divide it into three equal sections.
3. Begin a regular braid by crossing the right section over the middle, then the left over the middle.
4. As you continue braiding, add small sections of hair from the sides to each strand before crossing it over the middle.
5. Keep adding hair and braiding until you reach the nape of the neck.
6. Finish with a regular three-strand braid down the rest of the hair.
7. Secure the braid with a hair tie.

Benefits of the French Braid

• Keeps hair secure and neat.
• Suitable for all hair types and lengths.
• Can be dressed up or down for various occasions.

Ideal for

• School and casual outings.
• Sports and active days.
• Special occasions.

3. Dutch Braid

The Dutch braid, also known as the reverse French braid, creates a beautiful, raised braid that stands out. It’s achieved by crossing the sections of hair under rather than over, giving it a unique and eye-catching look.

How to Create a Dutch Braid

1. Brush the hair thoroughly to remove any tangles.
2. Take a small section of hair from the top center of the head and divide it into three equal sections.
3. Begin by crossing the right section under the middle section, then the left section under the middle.
4. As you continue braiding, add small sections of hair from the sides to each strand before crossing it under the middle.
5. Keep adding hair and braiding until you reach the nape of the neck.
6. Finish with a regular three-strand braid down the rest of the hair.
7. Secure the braid with a hair tie.

Differences Between Dutch and French Braids

• In a Dutch braid, hair sections are crossed under rather than over.
• The braid appears more prominent and raised.

Ideal for

• Sports and active days.
• Everyday wear.
• Special occasions and parties.

4. Fishtail Braid

The fishtail braid is a stylish and intricate-looking braid that is surprisingly easy to create. It involves using two sections of hair instead of three, giving it a distinctive, woven appearance.

How to Create a Fishtail Braid

1. Brush the hair to remove any tangles and gather it into a ponytail.
2. Divide the ponytail into two equal sections.
3. Take a small piece of hair from the outside of the left section and cross it over to join the right section.
4. Repeat the same process on the right side, taking a small piece of hair and crossing it over to join the left section.
5. Continue this process, alternating sides, until you reach the end of the hair.
6. Secure the braid with a hair tie.

Styling Tips

• For a messy, boho look, gently tug at the sides of the braid to loosen it.
• Use hair accessories like ribbons or beads for added flair.

Ideal for

• Special occasions and parties.
• Picture day.
• Family gatherings.

5. Box Braids

Box braids are a protective hairstyle that involves sectioning the hair into small squares and braiding each section. This style can last for several weeks and is great for reducing daily hair maintenance.

How to Create Box Braids

1. Start with clean, detangled hair.
2. Part the hair into small, even sections using a rat-tail comb.
3. Take one section and divide it into three equal parts.
4. Begin braiding the section from the roots down to the ends.
5. Secure the end of each braid with a small elastic band or braid sealer.
6. Repeat the process for each section until the entire head is braided.

Benefits of Box Braids

• Long-lasting and low maintenance.
• Protects natural hair from damage.
• Versatile styling options.

Ideal for

• Long-term wear.
• Vacations.
• Busy school weeks.

6. Cornrows

Cornrows are a traditional and versatile braiding style that lies close to the scalp, making it perfect for active kids. This style can be simple or intricate, with various patterns and designs to choose from. Cornrows are excellent for keeping hair neat and protected, reducing daily maintenance. Additionally, they are suitable for all hair types and lengths, making them a popular choice for many parents.

How to Create Cornrows

1. Start with clean, detangled hair.
2. Part the hair into the desired pattern using a rat-tail comb.
3. Dividing a small section of hair at the front into three parts.
4. Begin braiding by crossing the outer sections under the middle section, adding small amounts of hair from the scalp as you go.
5. Continue braiding until you reach the end of the section.
6. Secure the ends with small elastic bands.
7. Repeat the process for each section until the entire head is braided.

Creative Designs and Patterns

• Zigzag or curved parts.
• Combination of thick and thin braids.
• Adding beads or colorful bands for a fun look.

Ideal for

• Cultural events.
• Everyday wear.
• Sports and active days.

7. Halo Braid

The halo braid is a beautiful and elegant style that wraps around the head like a crown. This braid is perfect for special occasions and adds a touch of sophistication to any outfit. The halo braid is suitable for medium to long hair and can be adorned with flowers or other accessories for added charm. It’s a great way to keep hair off the face and neck, especially during warmer weather.

How to Create a Halo Braid

1. Start with clean, detangled hair.
2. Part the hair down the middle, from the front to the nape of the neck.
3. Begin braiding from one side of the part, taking a small section of hair and dividing it into three parts.
4. Create a Dutch braid by crossing the sections under the middle, adding small amounts of hair.
5. Continue braiding around the head, following the hairline.
6. Once you reach the starting point, secure the end of the braid and tuck it under the braid, pinning it in place with bobby pins.
7. Gently tug on the braid to loosen it slightly for a fuller look.

Suitable Hair Types and Lengths

• Medium to long hair.
• Works well with straight, wavy, or curly hair.
• Can be enhanced with decorative accessories.

Ideal for

• Weddings and formal events.
• Birthdays and celebrations.
• Picture day and family gatherings.

8. Crown Braid

The crown braid is a stunning and versatile hairstyle that creates the illusion of a braided crown encircling the head. It is perfect for formal occasions or anytime you want your child to feel like a princess. This style works well with medium to long hair and can be accessorized with ribbons or small flowers for an extra touch of elegance. The crown braid not only looks beautiful but also keeps hair securely in place throughout the day.

How to Create a Crown Braid

1. Start with clean, detangled hair.
2. Part the hair in the middle from the front to the nape of the neck.
3. Begin braiding from one side of the part near the hairline, taking a small section of hair and dividing it into three parts.
4. Create a Dutch braid by crossing the sections under the middle, adding small sections of hair as you go.
5. Continue braiding around the head, following the hairline.
6. Once you reach the nape of the neck, continue braiding the rest of the hair and secure the end with a hair tie.
7. Wrap the end of the braid around the head and tuck it under the starting point, securing it with bobby pins.
8. Gently pull on the braid to loosen it slightly for a more voluminous look.

Styling Suggestions

• Add small flowers or ribbons for decoration.
• Use a light hairspray to keep the braid in place.
• For a softer look, leave a few strands of hair loose around the face.

Ideal for

• Birthdays and celebrations.
• Formal events and weddings.
• Picture day and special occasions.

9. Waterfall Braid

The waterfall braid is a delicate and visually appealing hairstyle that creates a cascading effect, making it look like strands of hair are flowing through the braid. This style is perfect for special occasions and adds a whimsical touch to any outfit. The waterfall braid works well with medium to long hair and can be enhanced with accessories like flowers or ribbons for an extra charming look.

How to Create a Waterfall Braid

1. Start with clean, detangled hair.
2. Part the hair to one side.
3. Dividing a small section of hair from the front into three equal parts.
4. Begin a regular braid by crossing the right section over the middle, then the left over the middle.
5. Drop the right section of the braid, letting it hang loose.
6. Pick up a new section of hair from the top near the right section and cross it over to the middle.
7. Repeat the process, dropping the bottom section each time and picking up new hair from the top to continue the braid.
8. Continue braiding until you reach the back of the head, then secure the braid with a hairpin or a small elastic band.
9. Optionally, you can continue the braid on the other side of the head to create a full headband effect.

Visual Appeal and Versatility

• Creates a flowing, cascading effect.
• Suitable for straight, wavy, or curly hair.
• Can be accessorized with decorative pins or flowers.

Ideal for

• Picture day and family gatherings.
• Special occasions and parties.
• Weddings and formal events.

10. Side Braid

The side braid is a simple yet stylish hairstyle that gathers all the hair to one side, creating a chic and casual look. This braid is perfect for busy mornings when you need a quick and easy style that still looks polished. The side braid works well with various hair lengths and textures, making it a versatile option for everyday wear or special occasions.

How to Create a Side Braid

1. Brush the hair to remove any tangles.
2. Gather all the hair to one side of the head.
3. Divide the hair into three equal sections.
4. Begin a regular three-strand braid by crossing the right section over the middle, then the left section over the middle.
5. Continue braiding until you reach the end of the hair.
6. Secure the braid with a hair tie.

Styling Tips for Different Hair Textures

• For fine hair, use a texturizing spray to add volume.
• For curly hair, gently stretch the curls before braiding for a smoother look.
• Add a ribbon or hair accessory for a fun touch.

Ideal for

• Casual and everyday wear.
• School and playdates.
• Family outings and picnics.

11. Braided Ponytail

The braided ponytail is a practical and stylish hairstyle that combines the simplicity of a ponytail with the elegance of a braid. This style is perfect for keeping hair out of the face and off the neck, making it ideal for active kids. The braided ponytail is easy to create and can be dressed up or down for various occasions.

How to Create a Braided Ponytail

1. Brush the hair to remove any tangles.
2. Gather the hair into a high or low ponytail and secure it with a hair tie.
3. Divide the ponytail into three equal sections.
4. Begin a regular three-strand braid by crossing the right section over the middle, then the left section over the middle.
5. Continue braiding until you reach the end of the ponytail.
6. Secure the end of the braid with another hair tie.

Benefits and Styling Ideas

• Keeps hair secure and out of the way.
• Can be decorated with hair accessories like bows or scrunchies.
• Suitable for all hair types and lengths.

Ideal for

• Sports and active play.
• School and everyday wear.
• Casual outings and events.

12. Double Dutch Braids

Double Dutch braids, also known as boxer braids, are two Dutch braids that run parallel from the front to the back of the head. This hairstyle is not only trendy but also keeps hair secure and out of the face, making it perfect for active kids. Double Dutch braids are great for sports, school, and everyday wear.

How to Create Double Dutch Braids

1. Brush the hair to remove any tangles and part it down the middle from the forehead to the nape of the neck.
2. Take a small section of hair from one side of the part and divide it into three equal parts.
3. Begin a Dutch braid by crossing the outer sections under the middle section, adding small sections of hair from the sides as you go.
4. Continue braiding down the side of the head until you reach the nape of the neck.
5. Finish with a regular three-strand braid down the rest of the hair and secure it with a hair tie.
6. Repeat the process on the other side.
7. For a more polished look, gently pull on the braid sections to create volume.

Maintenance Tips

• Use a small amount of hair gel or spray to keep flyaways in check.
• Secure any loose strands with bobby pins.
• Start with slightly damp hair for better grip.

Ideal for

• Sports and active days.
• School and everyday wear.
• Casual outings.

13. Braided Bun

The braided bun is a chic and practical hairstyle that combines the elegance of a braid with the functionality of a bun. This style is perfect for keeping hair off the face and neck, making it ideal for dance recitals, formal events, or any occasion where a polished look is desired. The braided bun works well with medium to long hair and can be customized with various braid types.

How to Create a Braided Bun

1. Brush the hair to remove any tangles and gather it into a high or low ponytail, securing it with a hair tie.
2. Divide the ponytail into three sections and create a regular three-strand braid, securing the end with another hair tie.
3. Wrap the braid around the base of the ponytail to form a bun.
4. Secure the bun with bobby pins, making sure it’s tight and secure.
5. Optionally, pull on sections of the braid to create a fuller look.

Styling Variations

• Use a fishtail braid or Dutch braid for the bun.
• Add decorative hairpins or flowers for a special touch.
• For a more casual look, leave a few strands of hair loose around the face.

Ideal for

• Dance recitals and performances.
• Formal events and weddings.
• Everyday wear for a polished look.

14. Twisted Braids

Twisted braids are an easy and quick hairstyle that creates a unique and stylish look. Instead of the traditional three-strand braid, twisted braids use two sections of hair twisted together. This style is perfect for busy mornings and works well with various hair lengths and textures. Twisted braids can be left down or styled into buns or ponytails for added versatility.

How to Create Twisted Braids

1. Brush the hair to remove any tangles.
2. Divide the hair into sections depending on how many twisted braids you want.
3. Take one section and divide it into two equal parts.
4. Twist both sections individually in the same direction.
5. Then twist the two sections around each other in the opposite direction.
6. Continue twisting until you reach the end of the hair.
7. Secure the end with a hair tie.
8. Repeat the process for the remaining sections.

Styling Tips

• For a more secure twist, twist the hair tightly.
• Use a bit of styling cream to keep the twists smooth.
• Twisted braids can be combined into a larger braid or bun.

Ideal for

• Everyday wear.
• School and playdates.
• Casual outings and events.

15. Braided Pigtails

 

 

 

 

 

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Braided pigtails are a fun and playful hairstyle that involves two braids on either side of the head. This style is perfect for active kids as it keeps the hair secure and out of the way. Braided pigtails work well with medium to long hair and can be styled with various types of braids, such as classic three-strand or fishtail braids.

How to Create Braided Pigtails

1. Brush the hair to remove any tangles and part it down the middle from the forehead to the nape of the neck.
2. Gather one side of the hair and divide it into three equal sections.
3. Begin a regular three-strand braid by crossing the right section over the middle, then the left section over the middle.
4. Continue braiding until you reach the end of the hair and secure it with a hair tie.
5. Repeat the process on the other side.
6. For a more polished look, gently pull on the braid sections to create volume.

Fun Styling Ideas

• Use colorful hair ties or ribbons for a playful touch.
• Add small decorative clips or beads to the braids.
• Try different braid types, like fishtail or Dutch braids, for variety.

Ideal for

• Playdates and school days.
• Casual outings and family events.
• Sports and active play.

16. Ladder Braid

The ladder braid is an intricate and visually stunning hairstyle that creates the appearance of a ladder weaving through the hair. This style is perfect for special occasions and adds a unique touch to any look. The ladder braid works best with medium to long hair and can be paired with other braids or left as a standalone style.

How to Create a Ladder Braid:

1. Brush the hair to remove any tangles and part it to one side.
2. Take a small section of hair from the front and divide it into three parts.
3. Begin a regular three-strand braid, securing it with a hair tie.
4. Take a small section of hair from the side of the head and create another three-strand braid, but leave out a small section of hair from the middle strand each time you cross it over. This creates the “ladder” effect.
5. Pull the left-out sections through the main braid, creating a ladder look.
6. Continue braiding and incorporating the ladder strands until you reach the end of the hair.
7. Secure the braid with a hair tie.

Visual Appeal and Maintenance:

• Creates a unique, woven appearance.
• Use hair gel or spray to keep the braid neat.
• Suitable for straight or wavy hair.

Ideal for:

• Special occasions.
• Picture day and family gatherings.
• Formal events and celebrations.

17. Pull-Through Braid

The pull-through braid is an eye-catching and voluminous hairstyle that looks intricate but is surprisingly easy to create. This braid gives the appearance of a regular braid but uses small ponytails instead of traditional braiding. It is perfect for special occasions and can be done on medium to long hair.

How to Create a Pull-Through Braid

1. Brush the hair to remove any tangles and gather it into a high ponytail, securing it with a hair tie.
2. Divide the ponytail into two equal sections.
3. Take a small section from the outer part of the left section and pull it over to the right section, securing it with a small hair tie.
4. Repeat the process on the right side, taking a small section from the outer part and pulling it over to the left section, securing it with a hair tie.
5. Continue this process down the length of the hair.
6. Once you reach the end, secure it with a final hair tie and gently pull on the loops to create volume.

Styling Tips

• For added volume, gently tug on each section of the braid.
• Use small, clear elastic bands for a seamless look.
• Add decorative accessories like ribbons or flowers for an extra touch.

Ideal for

• Picture day and family gatherings.
• Special occasions and parties.
• Formal events and celebrations.

Tips for Maintaining Braid Hairstyles

Keeping your child’s braid hairstyles looking fresh and neat can be a challenge, especially with active kids. However, with a few simple tips and the right products, you can ensure that their braids stay beautiful and last longer.

General Maintenance Tips:

• Keep Hair Clean: Start with clean, detangled hair to make braiding easier and to help the style last longer.
• Use Hair Products: Apply a small amount of hair gel, mousse, or styling cream to control flyaways and keep the braid smooth.
• Protect at Night: Cover the braids with a satin or silk scarf or bonnet to prevent frizz and tangling while sleeping.
• Moisturize Regularly: Use a light oil or leave-in conditioner to keep the scalp and hair moisturized, especially for protective styles like box braids or cornrows.

Recommended Products

• Detangling Spray: Makes it easier to comb through the hair before braiding.
• Styling Gel or Cream: Helps control flyaways and gives a smooth finish.
• Satin or Silk Scarf: Protects braids overnight and reduces friction.

How to Protect Braids While Sleeping

1. Cover with a Scarf or Bonnet: Use a satin or silk scarf or bonnet to cover the braids before bed. This helps to reduce friction and prevent frizz.
2. Use a Satin Pillowcase: If your child finds wearing a scarf or bonnet uncomfortable, a satin pillowcase is a good alternative.
3. Avoid Tight Braids: Ensure the braids are not too tight to prevent discomfort and hair breakage.

Braiding your child’s hair can be fun and practical, offering a wide range of styles that keep their hair neat and protected. From the classic three-strand braid to intricate styles like the ladder braid, countless options suit every occasion and hair type. Following our step-by-step guides and maintenance tips, you can easily create beautiful braid hairstyles that your child will love. Feel free to experiment with different styles and accessories to find the perfect look for your little one.

We hope these 17 cute and easy braid hairstyles inspire you to try something new and creative. Share your favorite braid styles and tips in the comments below. Happy braiding!