As well as looking pretty, braids are a practical hair styling technique for kids. They keep hair out of their necks when they're playing sports or hanging out outdoors in warm weather. There are a number of variations that are beautiful yet straightforward to style once you know how.
Singular Side Braid
Instead of just doing a standard braid down the back of your child's head, why not put an edgy, contemporary twist on this hairstyle and sweep it off to the side?
You can achieve this look by starting at one side of the top of the head and then gradually braiding the hair in a diagonal curved motion until you reach the bottom of the head at the other side. It's easy yet chic.
Braided Pigtails
French braids are super cute when they're finished halfway down the length of your child's hair and the ends are secured into a ponytail effect.
Whether you opt for one braid or two, it produces a practical yet fun aesthetic that has staying power.
Fishtail Braids
Fishtail braids are a little more difficult to assemble compared to standard braids, but they look so stunning and effortless once complete.
To start with, part your child's hair and tie up one section out of the way while you work on the other. Split the first section in two and take one piece of hair about half an inch in thickness from the right side. Tuck this piece of hair underneath the left side. Then take a piece of the same amount of hair from the left side and tuck it underneath the right section of hair. Keep alternating sides like this until all the hair is caught up in the braid. Finally, secure firmly with a hair tie.
Beaded Cornrows
Protective hairstyles, such as cornrows, are an extremely popular part of African-American culture. Cornrows are a particular style of braiding where your kid's tresses are braided in narrow strips across the scalp to build a geometric pattern.
To produce a youthful and playful cornrow style for kids, ask your stylist to implement a multitude of braids in different directions. You can also use beads in a variety of hues to add interest.
Two Dutch Braids
Dutch braids are a very refined-looking style that works perfectly for special events or dressier occasions.
The difference between a Dutch and French braid is that you braid underneath instead of over, which is why Dutch braids can also be called inside-out or reverse braids. To develop Dutch braids, split your hair section into three like you would with a French braid. Then take the right hair strand and cross it underneath the middle strand, before using the left strand to braid it under the middle strand. Repeat the process until your braid is complete.
Multiple Micro Braids
A series of tightly woven braids look cute and funky as a kids' hairstyle. You can even finish each micro braid off with a decorative hair tie or clip for a distinctive aesthetic.
Braided Buns
Braided buns are versatile and can be fashioned with any type of braid from Dutch to French to cornrows. You can assemble just one big bun or two smaller ones, which tends to be easier for medium to thick locks.
Braid the hair as normal and then coil the braid around into a bun shape either at the top of the head, at the back of the head or at the nape of your child's neck depending on the look you're going for. You can also make the bun as tight or loose as desired before securing it with pins.
Colorful Braid Extensions
To make the maximum impact on vacation or for a special occasion, consider colorful braid extensions for your child's tresses.
This is where threaded fabric or fake hair is intertwined into the braid in one color or a multitude of hues. Insert as many braids in as many shades and thicknesses as you like for a quirky and vibrant appearance.
Half-Up, Half-Down Princess Braids
Straightforward yet effective, this gorgeous Princess-style hairdo can be manufactured in a moment.
Simply generate two thin braids at the very front of the head and pull them back so that they meet in the middle at the crown. Pin them in place so that they meet at a point and leave the rest of the locks to hang free.
Milkmaid Braided Updo
In warm weather, a milkmaid-style braided updo can be a lifesaver for your kid. It's also great for keeping medium length or long hair off the shoulders and out of the neck.
All you have to do is split the hair into two sections and braid each section however you please, whether it's into a French or standard plait. Afterwards, turn the right braid back on itself and pull it across the top of the head until the ends reach your child's left ear. Pin it into place before using the same technique for the left braid until it's pinned at the right ear. You're then left with an elegant and stylish updo.
Finding a Style That Suits
There are so many braiding hairstyles for kids that create trendy and versatile looks, as well as being practical. Some might take a bit of time to master, but a lot of them are simple to construct and can easily be incorporated into your child's daily getting-ready routine.
