✨ 14 Braided Hairstyles For Kids

Alright, hair wranglers and style gurus, listen up! We all know the drill: mornings are a battlefield, and getting those little heads looking cute and keeping hair out of their faces feels like a Herculean task. But what if I told you there’s a magical solution that’s both adorable and practical? Enter the wonderful world of braids!

Forget the endless tangles and the “I don’t wanna brush my hair!” drama. Braids are your secret weapon for effortless style, major staying power, and making your kiddo look like the coolest kid on the playground. Plus, they totally save you from wrestling with a brush every single day. Who’s got time for that, honestly? Let’s dive into some seriously cute looks that are way easier than you think.

1. The Classic Three-Strand Braid

Okay, let’s kick things off with the OG. This isn’t just a braid; it’s practically a rite of passage for every parent’s hair-styling journey. You literally cannot mess this up… probably.

Just divide the hair into three equal sections, then weave the outside strands over the middle one, alternating sides. It’s super quick, holds like a champ for school, and saves you from those “what hair disaster now” moments. Pro tip: A tiny bit of hair oil on your fingers makes those flyaways behave like well-trained puppies.

This one’s your reliable best friend for a reason: it’s simple, timeless, and always looks put-together without trying too hard.

2. The Everyday French Braid

Feeling a little fancy but still need to be out the door in five? The French braid is your sophisticated, yet still totally doable, answer. It’s like the classic braid’s cooler, more put-together older sibling.

Start with three small sections at the crown, then as you weave, add small sections of hair from the sides into each outer strand before crossing it over. This creates that seamless, pulled-back look. It keeps hair completely off the face for sports or just general mischief. Pro tip: Keep your tension even to avoid bumps – nobody wants a lumpy braid, right?

This style is a total winner for keeping hair tidy and looking effortlessly chic all day long.

3. The Stand-Out Dutch Braid

If you want a braid that really pops, the Dutch braid is your go-to. It’s basically a French braid, but backwards, which makes it stand out (literally) from the head. Prepare for compliments.

Instead of crossing strands over the middle, you cross them under the middle strand, adding hair from the sides as you go. This makes the braid sit on top of the hair, creating a cool 3D effect. It’s perfect for showing off length or adding some serious texture. Pro tip: Using a rat-tail comb for precise sections makes this look extra clean and polished.

This braid is a showstopper, offering a unique twist on a classic that’s surprisingly easy to master.

4. Fancy Fishtail Braid

Okay, this one looks super intricate and impressive, but here’s the secret: it’s ridiculously simple. It just takes a little more patience, which we totally have, right?

Divide hair into two main sections. Then, take a small strand from the outside of one section and cross it over to join the other section. Repeat, alternating sides, until you reach the end. It creates this beautiful, delicate woven pattern. Pro tip: Don’t be afraid to pull the finished braid apart gently for a thicker, more bohemian vibe.

The fishtail is your secret weapon for looking like a hair wizard without actually needing a magic wand.

5. Double French Pigtails

Why have one French braid when you can have two? Double French pigtails are the epitome of cute, functional, and just plain fun. They’re basically a guaranteed good mood.

Part the hair down the middle and create a French braid on each side, starting from the front and working your way down to the nape of the neck. Secure with elastics. This style is perfect for active kids, keeping every single strand out of the way. Pro tip: Spray a little water on the hair before braiding to minimize frizz and make sections easier to handle.

These pigtails are a playful, practical choice that ensures maximum cuteness and minimal hair drama.

6. Sporty Boxer Braids (Double Dutch)

Ready for some serious athletic chic? Boxer braids are essentially two Dutch braids, and they’re not just for the ring anymore. They’re a super cool, super secure style.

Part the hair down the middle and create a Dutch braid on each side, starting from the front and braiding all the way down. This style is incredibly secure, making it ideal for sports, swimming, or just surviving a wild playdate. Pro tip: Use clear elastics at the ends for a seamless finish that doesn’t distract from the braids.

Boxer braids are the ultimate power move for any kid who needs their hair to stay put and look awesome while doing it.

7. The Braided Headband

Want to add a touch of elegance without a full commitment? The braided headband is your answer. It’s like a built-in accessory that actually works.

Take a section of hair from behind one ear, braid it (classic, French, or Dutch), and then sweep it across the top of the head like a headband, securing it behind the other ear with a bobby pin. This keeps bangs and front pieces out of the face with zero fuss. Pro tip: Match the bobby pins to their hair color so they virtually disappear.

This style is a charming way to manage hair and add a sweet, polished detail to any look.

8. Tiny Accent Braids

Sometimes, less is more, especially when you’re short on time but still want a little something extra. Tiny accent braids are the unsung heroes of quick styling.

Simply grab a small section of hair from the front or side, braid it (classic three-strand works best here), and leave it loose or pin it back. It adds a subtle, playful touch without requiring a full-on hair project. Pro tip: Add a small, colorful elastic or a cute bead to the end for an extra pop of personality.

These little braids are perfect for adding a touch of whimsy and keeping those pesky front pieces out of their eyes.

9. The Regal Crown Braid

Every kid deserves to feel like royalty, and the crown braid delivers just that. It’s majestic, secure, and surprisingly easy once you get the hang of it.

Start a French or Dutch braid near one ear and continue braiding all the way around the head, picking up new sections of hair as you go, until you meet where you started. Tuck the end in and pin it. This style is fantastic for special occasions or just feeling fancy. Pro tip: A few spritzes of hairspray will help keep everything in place for hours of royal adventures.

The crown braid is an absolute showstopper that makes any kid feel like they’re ready for their own coronation.

10. Whimsical Waterfall Braid

For a look that’s truly magical and feels like something straight out of a fairy tale, the waterfall braid is your ticket. It’s delicate, pretty, and basically hair art.

Start a French braid along the side of the head, but instead of adding the bottom section of hair to the braid, you drop it and let it fall, then pick up a new section from underneath to continue the braid. This creates a beautiful “waterfall” effect. Pro tip: Curling the loose strands afterward enhances the dreamy, flowing look.

This braid is a stunning choice for a softer, more romantic style that’s sure to turn heads.

11. Half-Up Braided Twist

When you can’t decide between keeping hair down or putting it up, the half-up braided twist swoops in to save the day. It’s the best of both worlds, really.

Take two small sections of hair from the temples, braid each one (French or Dutch works great), then bring them together at the back of the head and secure with an elastic or a cute clip. It pulls hair away from the face while letting the rest flow freely. Pro tip: Gently tug on the braid loops for a fuller, softer look before securing.

This style is perfect for adding a touch of elegance and control without sacrificing length or volume.

12. Braided Space Buns

For a look that’s out of this world (pun absolutely intended), braided space buns are the ultimate cool-kid hairstyle. They’re fun, quirky, and super secure.

Part the hair down the middle, then create a French or Dutch braid on each side, starting from the nape of the neck and braiding upwards. Once you reach the crown, gather the remaining hair and coil it into a bun, securing with pins or another elastic. Pro tip: Use a little texturizing spray before coiling the buns for extra grip and volume.

Braided space buns are a playful and practical choice that brings a whole lot of personality to the playground.

13. The Chic Rope Braid

Looking for a braid that’s a little different, super sleek, and holds like nobody’s business? The rope braid is your new best friend. It’s deceptively simple.

Divide a section of hair into two strands. Twist each strand tightly in the same direction, then twist the two twisted strands around each other in the opposite direction. Secure the end. This creates a really cool, tightly wound look that’s incredibly durable. Pro tip: A dab of styling cream helps smooth the strands before twisting for a super polished finish.

The rope braid offers a unique, elegant alternative to traditional braids, perfect for a refined yet playful vibe.

14. Ponytail Braid Wrap

Want to elevate a basic ponytail from “just rolled out of bed” to “effortlessly stylish”? A ponytail braid wrap is the quickest glow-up you can give it.

First, gather hair into a ponytail. Then, take a small section of hair from the ponytail, braid it (a simple three-strand works perfectly), and wrap this braid around the base of the ponytail, securing it with a bobby pin underneath. It instantly adds a touch of sophistication and hides the elastic. Pro tip: Use a bobby pin that matches the hair color for an invisible hold.

This simple trick transforms an everyday ponytail into a polished, put-together statement with minimal effort.

Conclusion

See? Who knew braiding could be this fun and, dare I say, easy? You’ve got 14 awesome styles in your arsenal now, ready to tackle any hair challenge thrown your way. From the classic reliable to the super chic, these braids will not only keep those little tresses tidy but also make your kiddo feel like the coolest superstar around.

So go on, grab those elastics, unleash your inner hair artist, and get braiding! Your mornings (and your sanity) will thank you. Now go forth and conquer those tangles!