Braided hairstyles are a delightful way to keep your child’s hair stylish and manageable. Not only do they look cute, but braids also help keep hair out of the face during playtime and activities. Whether your child has long hair or medium-length hair, there are numerous braided styles that are easy to create and perfect for everyday wear. In this article, we will explore 14 cute and easy braided hairstyles for kids, offering step-by-step instructions and tips to help you achieve these charming looks.
Why Choose Braided Hairstyles?
Braided hairstyles are popular for many reasons. They are versatile, suitable for various occasions, and can be dressed up or down. Braids can last for days, allowing for low-maintenance hair care. They also encourage creativity, enabling kids to express their personalities through different styles. Moreover, braids can protect hair from damage, making them a healthy choice for young ones with delicate hair.
The Basics of Braiding Hair
Before diving into specific styles, let’s cover some fundamental braiding techniques. Here are a few tips to keep in mind when braiding your child’s hair:
- Start with Clean, Dry Hair: It’s easier to braid hair that is clean and free of tangles. If your child’s hair is too slippery, you can use a light leave-in conditioner.
- Use the Right Tools: Have some essential tools on hand, such as hair elastics, hairbrushes, and hair clips. A spray bottle with water can help dampen hair if needed.
- Sectioning Hair: For most braided styles, sectioning the hair is crucial. Use hair clips to hold back sections you are not currently working on.
- Practice Patience: Braiding can take practice. Don’t worry if it doesn’t look perfect on the first try; with practice, you’ll improve!
1. Classic Three-Strand Braid
The classic three-strand braid is a timeless hairstyle. It’s simple to do and works well for all hair types.
How to Do It:
- Prepare the Hair: Start with clean, dry hair. Brush through to remove any tangles.
- Section the Hair: Divide the hair into three equal sections.
- Start Braiding: Cross the right section over the middle section, then cross the left section over the new middle section. Continue this pattern until you reach the end of the hair.
- Secure with an Elastic: Use a hair elastic to secure the braid.
Tips:
- For a fun twist, add ribbons or colorful hair ties at the end of the braid.
- This style works great for school or casual outings.
2. Fishtail Braid
The fishtail braid is a unique and stylish option that looks more complex than it is.
How to Do It:
- Section the Hair: Divide the hair into two large sections.
- Create the Fishtail: Take a small piece from the outer edge of the left section and cross it over to the right section. Then take a small piece from the outer edge of the right section and cross it over to the left.
- Repeat: Continue this pattern until you reach the end of the hair.
- Secure with an Elastic: Use a hair elastic to secure the braid.
Tips:
- Gently pull on the edges of the braid to create a fuller look.
- This style is perfect for special occasions.
3. Dutch Braid
The Dutch braid, often called an inverted braid, adds a beautiful 3D effect to the hairstyle.
How to Do It:
- Section the Hair: Part the hair down the middle.
- Start Braiding: Take three sections of hair at the top. Begin braiding by crossing the right section under the middle, then the left section under the new middle.
- Add Hair: As you continue, add hair from the sides into the braid.
- Secure with an Elastic: Finish the braid and secure it at the end.
Tips:
- This style looks fantastic on its own or can be incorporated into a ponytail.
- Use colorful hair elastics for added flair.
4. Box Braids
Box braids are a protective style that looks fabulous and can last for weeks. They involve creating small, square-shaped sections.
How to Do It:
- Section the Hair: Part the hair into small square sections.
- Start Braiding: Take one small section and divide it into three parts. Braid using the classic three-strand technique.
- Secure with an Elastic: Repeat with all sections and secure with elastics.
Tips:
- Use different colored hair extensions for a playful look.
- This style is great for vacations or long outings.
5. Braided Crown
The braided crown is a stunning hairstyle that looks elegant and is perfect for special occasions.
How to Do It:
- Section the Hair: Create a side part and section off the hair on one side.
- Braid the Section: Braid the section into a classic three-strand braid.
- Wrap the Braid: Once you reach the end, wrap the braid around the base of the ponytail or around the head.
- Secure with Pins: Use bobby pins to hold the braid in place.
Tips:
- Add some flowers or decorative pins for a more whimsical look.
- This style is perfect for birthdays or family gatherings.
6. Waterfall Braid
The waterfall braid creates a beautiful cascading effect, ideal for longer hair.
How to Do It:
- Section the Hair: Start with a section of hair at the front.
- Begin Braiding: Braid a three-strand braid but drop the bottom section each time you cross it over.
- Add Hair: Add a new section of hair to the top of the braid each time, allowing the dropped pieces to fall.
- Secure with an Elastic: Finish with a regular braid and secure it.
Tips:
- This style looks lovely with loose curls.
- Perfect for family events or casual outings.
7. Side Braid
The side braid is a playful and easy hairstyle that works well for all hair types.
How to Do It:
- Brush the Hair: Start with clean, brushed hair.
- Gather to One Side: Sweep all the hair to one side.
- Braid: Create a classic three-strand braid.
- Secure with an Elastic: Use an elastic at the end.
Tips:
- You can pull on the edges to create a fuller look.
- This style is great for school or playdates.
8. Double Braids
Double braids are cute and perfect for keeping hair tidy and stylish.
How to Do It:
- Section the Hair: Part the hair down the middle.
- Create Two Braids: Braid each section using the classic three-strand method.
- Secure with Elastics: Use elastics to secure both braids.
Tips:
- Add colorful hair ties for a fun touch.
- Ideal for busy days at school.
9. Braided Ponytail
The braided ponytail combines the fun of braids with the practicality of a ponytail.
How to Do It:
- Create a Ponytail: Gather all the hair into a high or low ponytail.
- Braid the Ponytail: Braid the ponytail using any braiding technique you prefer.
- Secure with an Elastic: Use an elastic at the end.
Tips:
- This style is perfect for sports or outdoor activities.
- You can wrap a small section of hair around the elastic for a polished look.
10. Twisted Braid
The twisted braid adds a unique flair to traditional braiding techniques.
How to Do It:
- Section the Hair: Divide the hair into two sections.
- Twist and Braid: Twist each section in the same direction and then braid them together.
- Secure with an Elastic: Use an elastic to hold the end.
Tips:
- This style looks great with accessories like ribbons.
- Ideal for casual outings.
11. French Braid
The French braid is a classic style that is both elegant and functional.
How to Do It:
- Section the Hair: Start at the top of the head.
- Begin Braiding: Take three sections and start braiding, adding hair from the sides as you go.
- Secure with an Elastic: Finish the braid and secure it at the end.
Tips:
- For a softer look, gently pull at the braid edges.
- Perfect for special occasions or everyday wear.
12. Lace Braid
The lace braid is a lovely option that works great for fine hair.
How to Do It:
- Section the Hair: Take a small section at the front.
- Create the Braid: Braid it as you would a French braid but only add hair from one side.
- Secure with an Elastic: Once you reach the back, secure the braid.
Tips:
- This style pairs beautifully with loose curls.
- Great for a special day or outing.
Conclusion
Braided hairstyles offer a wonderful way to keep your child’s hair looking cute and tidy while also allowing for creativity and self-expression. From classic three-strand braids to intricate lace and waterfall styles, there is a braid for every occasion, skill level, and hair type. These 14 cute and easy braided hairstyles are not only practical but also provide an opportunity for bonding time with your child as you explore different styles together.
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