25 Fun Hairstyles for Toddlers

Styling toddler hair can be a challenge, especially when your little one is full of energy and wants to play instead of sit still. But with the right 25 fun hairstyles for toddlers, you can create adorable looks that are both practical and comfortable for your child.

Whether your toddler has curly, straight, thick, or fine hair, this guide covers a variety of styles to suit all hair types. From mini buns to braided crowns, these hairstyles are designed to make mornings easier and special occasions memorable.

Using gentle hair tools and kid-friendly products ensures that these hairstyles are safe and damage-free. Most importantly, they make hairstyling fun for both parents and toddlers, transforming routine grooming into bonding time.

1. Double Mini Buns

Double mini buns are a playful and timeless hairstyle that instantly adds cuteness to your toddler’s look. Start by parting the hair down the middle and gathering two equal sections. Twist each section into a small bun and secure with soft hair ties or scrunchies designed for kids.

This style works wonderfully on all hair types, especially for toddler short hair styles and curly toddler hair. It keeps hair away from the face, which is perfect for playtime or nap time.

Parents love this style because it’s quick to do, looks great, and can be accessorized with colorful clips or bows. It’s a popular choice among cute toddler hairstyles and is frequently requested for birthdays or photo shoots.

2. Side Pony with Bow

A simple side ponytail adorned with a bow transforms everyday hair into something special. Sweep your toddler’s hair to one side and secure it with a gentle elastic. Adding a soft, fabric bow enhances the charm and keeps the hair neat.

This style suits fine hair toddlers well, giving the appearance of volume. It’s easy to execute in under five minutes, making it a go-to among quick toddler hairstyles.

The side pony with a bow is ideal for school or playdates and can be refreshed with a spritz of leave-in conditioner to manage flyaways. This effortless look is part of many parents’ routines who want their toddlers to look adorable without fuss.

3. Waterfall Braid for Toddlers

The waterfall braid is an elegant yet simple style perfect for occasions. It creates a cascading effect by letting sections of hair fall free while braiding others along the scalp. This style works best on medium to long hair and is suitable for toddler haircuts that allow some length.

While it may take a bit more time, the waterfall braid stays secure with child-friendly hairpins and can be decorated with small barrettes or flowers for parties. Parents often find this braid a wonderful way to keep hair tangle-free during active play.

The look is a favorite among school hairstyles for toddlers and helps your child feel special on events like family gatherings or holidays.

4. Bubble Ponytail

Bubble ponytails are fun, bouncy, and easy to personalize. Start with a regular ponytail, then add several hair ties spaced evenly down the length of the ponytail. Gently pull each section between ties to create “bubbles” for a whimsical effect.

This style adds volume and interest, especially for toddlers with thinner hair. It’s a fantastic example of easy toddler hairstyles that look more complex than they actually are.

Bubble ponytails hold up well during active play and are popular for birthday parties or outings. Using bright-colored elastics adds an extra playful touch, making it a great colorful toddler hairstyle option.

5. Braided Crown Style

Braided crowns encircle the head, giving toddlers a fairy-tale look that is both practical and regal. Begin by creating two braids on each side of the head, then wrap them around and pin at the back, forming a crown.

This style is excellent for curly or wavy hair types as it keeps strands controlled and neat. It’s often chosen for formal events like weddings or holiday photoshoots, making it one of the most popular protective hairstyles for toddlers.

Parents appreciate how the braid keeps hair secure and prevents tangling, and toddlers can still enjoy free movement without discomfort.

6. Zigzag Parted Pigtails

Zigzag parted pigtails add a fun twist to classic pigtails. Using a comb, create a zigzag part instead of a straight one before securing two ponytails. The unusual part makes the hairstyle stand out and gives a playful vibe.

This hairstyle works well for toddlers with medium hair length and suits both straight and wavy textures. It’s a staple among easy toddler hairstyles because it’s quick and neat.

Adding colorful elastics or ribbons to the pigtails makes it suitable for daily wear or special outings, offering versatility in styling.

7. Colorful Beaded Braids

Beaded braids combine the tradition of braiding with vibrant beads threaded at the ends or along the strands. This style is excellent for toddlers with longer hair and provides a fun, tactile experience during styling.

The beads come in various shapes and colors, allowing for creative expression. Parents choose this style to celebrate cultural heritage or simply add a pop of color to toddler braids.

Care should be taken to use child-safe beads to avoid choking hazards, but when done properly, it’s a delightful and festive hairstyle.

8. Twisted Top Knots

Twisted top knots are quick and stylish, perfect for keeping hair out of toddlers’ faces. Gather hair into a high ponytail, twist it, and wrap into a bun secured by soft elastics or clips.

This hairstyle suits most hair textures and is a popular choice for messy bun hairstyles for toddlers. It offers an effortless way to look neat while allowing toddlers to remain active and comfortable.

Twisted top knots are often paired with headbands or bows to enhance cuteness, making it an excellent choice for daily wear or casual parties.

9. Curly Puff Ponytails

Curly puff ponytails celebrate natural curls by gathering hair into a ponytail while allowing curls to bounce freely. This style highlights toddler curls and protects hair from excessive manipulation.

Ideal for toddler afro hairstyles, this look is both easy and adorable. It requires minimal styling products and works well with leave-in conditioners that enhance curl definition.

Parents love how this style keeps curls healthy and manageable while looking playful and fun. It’s also a great option for hot days when you want to keep hair off the neck.

10. Simple Clip-In Styles

Simple clip-in styles involve adding decorative clips or barrettes to swept-back or parted hair. These styles are quick fixes that add charm without requiring extensive hairstyling.

Clips with fun shapes like animals, flowers, or bows are popular among toddlers and encourage them to participate in styling. This approach suits toddlers with both short and long hair.

The style is practical for quick outings, photos, or school days, adding flair without discomfort or time-consuming effort.

11. Heart-Shaped Braids

Heart-shaped braids are a charming and creative hairstyle that instantly makes toddlers look extra adorable. To create this style, part the hair into two sections and braid each side into a curved heart shape, securing the ends with soft elastics. This style works beautifully on medium to long hair, especially for toddlers with toddler braids or fine hair textures.

Parents love this style for special occasions like Valentine’s Day or birthday parties because it adds a unique touch without being overly complicated. The heart shape is playful and eye-catching, perfect for capturing cute photos or standing out at events.

This look is gentle on the scalp when done with loose braids and is a wonderful way to encourage toddlers to participate in their hairstyling. Using child-friendly products and accessories helps keep hair healthy and manageable.

12. Classic Toddler Bob with Bows

The classic toddler bob is timeless and easy to manage, especially when accessorized with colorful bows. This haircut suits toddlers with straight or slightly wavy hair and is an excellent choice for parents seeking a toddler short hair style that looks polished with minimal effort.

Adding bows near the ears or at the crown adds flair and can be coordinated with outfits for school or family gatherings. The simplicity of this style means it requires very little daily maintenance, making it a popular option among easy toddler hairstyles.

Because the hair is kept at a manageable length, it’s also ideal for active toddlers. The bows add a fun, feminine touch and make the bob feel fresh and playful every day.

13. Side Braid with Ribbon

The side braid with a ribbon is a beautiful way to add color and personality to your toddler’s hairstyle. Create a loose braid on one side and weave a satin ribbon through the plait, tying it off with a bow at the end. This style is well-suited for toddlers with medium to long hair.

This hairstyle works well for school hairstyles for toddlers and special occasions. The ribbon adds a festive or elegant touch, depending on the color and texture you choose, making it highly versatile.

It’s gentle on delicate hair when braided loosely, and the ribbon helps keep the braid secure. Plus, toddlers love the feel of the soft ribbon, and it often encourages cooperation during hairstyling.

14. Front Twist into Ponytail

The front twist into a ponytail is a quick and stylish option for toddlers with hair that needs to be kept out of their faces. To achieve this look, twist a small section of hair at the front and secure it into a ponytail at the back or side.

This style suits all hair types and lengths, making it one of the most adaptable quick toddler hairstyles. It helps reduce tangles and keeps hair neat during active play or mealtime.

Parents find this style functional yet cute, and it pairs well with both casual and dressy outfits. Using a light hold leave-in conditioner helps keep flyaways in check without stiffness.

15. Afro Puff Styles

Afro puffs celebrate natural hair texture and are a simple, stylish option for toddlers with curly or coily hair. Gather the hair into one or two puff ponytails, securing them with soft elastics, which helps maintain moisture and protect curls.

This style is a staple among toddler afro hairstyles, offering ease of styling and maintaining natural hair health. It’s both playful and practical, perfect for any time of day or special event.

Afro puffs also protect the scalp from environmental damage by minimizing manipulation, making them a favorite among parents prioritizing protective hairstyles for toddlers.

16. Crisscross Elastic Style

The crisscross elastic style involves sectioning the hair and securing it with multiple elastics in a crisscross pattern, creating a unique and playful look. This style is easy to do and holds well, making it perfect for toddlers with medium to thick hair.

This style is often chosen for easy toddler hairstyles because it’s quick to create yet stands out from traditional ponytails or braids. The multiple elastics can be colorful, adding an extra fun element to the hairstyle.

Parents appreciate that this style keeps hair contained during active play and can be done without heat or heavy products. It’s a great option for school days or casual outings.

17. Double Dutch Braids

Double Dutch braids are a classic and practical hairstyle that keeps hair neatly secured and tangle-free. This style involves braiding two sections of hair inward, starting from the front hairline down to the nape of the neck.

Perfect for toddlers with longer or thicker hair, this style is ideal for active days as it prevents hair from falling into the eyes. It’s also a favorite among parents looking for protective hairstyles for toddlers that maintain hair health.

The double Dutch braids can be dressed up with colorful bands or barrettes, making them versatile for both everyday wear and special occasions.

18. Pinwheel Bun Look

The pinwheel bun is a whimsical and creative style where the hair is twisted and pinned in sections to form a circular “pinwheel” pattern on the head. This intricate style is surprisingly easy to do with practice and works well on medium-length hair.

This hairstyle adds a fun, artistic flair to any toddler’s look and is especially popular for parties or photo sessions. It allows for neat hair containment while looking stylish and playful.

Using soft hair ties and pins ensures that the bun is comfortable and won’t cause headaches, which is important for sensitive toddler scalps.

19. Tiny Braids with Barrettes

Tiny braids with barrettes add texture and interest to toddler hairstyles. These small braids are woven into the hair and adorned with cute barrettes, adding sparkle or color that toddlers adore.

This style suits all hair types and lengths and is especially effective for fine or straight hair. It helps control flyaways and adds a playful element to everyday hair.

Barrettes come in endless designs, from animals to flowers, making this style highly customizable and engaging for toddlers, encouraging them to enjoy hairstyling routines.

20. Messy Buns with Headbands

Messy buns paired with headbands combine comfort and style effortlessly. To create this look, gather the hair into a loose bun and add a stretchy, decorative headband to frame the face and keep hair in place.

This style works well for toddler short hair styles or longer hair and is perfect for casual days or naps. It’s one of the easiest messy bun hairstyles for toddlers and requires minimal maintenance.

Parents appreciate that the headband helps tame unruly strands and keeps the bun secure during active play, making it a practical and cute option.

21. Faux Hawk for Toddlers

The toddler faux hawk is a trendy and edgy hairstyle where the hair is styled upward in the center while the sides remain softer or pinned back. This style adds personality and is surprisingly easy to achieve.

Suitable for toddlers with short to medium hair, it requires minimal product and can be dressed up with temporary hair colors or glitter sprays for special events.

This look is a favorite for parents wanting a stylish yet manageable haircut that’s playful and bold without being too demanding to maintain.

22. Low Pigtails with Ribbons

Low pigtails with ribbons are a sweet and classic hairstyle. Hair is parted down the middle and gathered into two low ponytails, each tied with a colorful or patterned ribbon.

This style works beautifully for toddlers with fine or medium hair and is commonly seen among toddler hairstyles for photos and family outings.

Ribbons add softness and charm while also allowing easy adjustments to match outfits or seasonal themes, making it an endearing choice for daily wear.

23. Braided Mohawk

The braided mohawk combines edgy styling with practicality. The sides of the hair are braided or slicked back, while the middle section is left voluminous or styled into braids for a faux mohawk effect.

This hairstyle works best for toddlers with medium to thick hair and adds a fun statement to their look. It’s ideal for parents wanting a protective yet fashionable style.

The braided mohawk is comfortable and holds up well during active play, making it suitable for both casual days and special events.

24. Toddler Space Buns

Space buns are playful and trendy, involving two buns positioned high on either side of the head. This style works well on medium to long hair and is an excellent choice for fun toddler hairstyles.

They keep hair contained and look festive, making them popular for birthdays, holidays, or casual days at the park.

Space buns are easy to accessorize with clips, bows, or glitter bands, encouraging toddlers to embrace their unique style while staying comfortable.

25. Loose Curls with Side Clip

Loose curls styled with a side clip offer a gentle and natural look for toddlers with curly or wavy hair. Simply style curls loosely and pin back one side with a decorative clip to keep hair out of the face.

This style highlights the natural texture of your toddler’s hair while adding a polished finish. It’s suitable for both everyday wear and special occasions like family photos.

The side clip adds sparkle and charm, making it a favorite among parents who want to showcase their child’s natural beauty with minimal fuss.

Conclusion

The 25 fun hairstyles for toddlers provide a wide variety of options that combine cuteness, ease, and practicality. These styles not only make mornings less stressful but also encourage toddlers to enjoy their hair routine.

From double mini buns to braided crowns and curly puff ponytails, there’s a hairstyle to suit every mood, event, and hair type. Embracing these looks transforms routine hairstyling into cherished moments of connection.

Parents can feel confident knowing these styles are safe, gentle, and perfect for keeping toddlers comfortable and happy while looking absolutely adorable.

FAQs

Q1: How do I get my toddler to sit still for hairstyling? 

Keeping toddlers engaged during hairstyling can be challenging. Using distractions such as favorite toys, cartoons, or interactive storytime works well. Try to style hair during calm moments like after naps or meals when your toddler is more cooperative.

Q2: Are these hairstyles safe for delicate toddler hair? 

Yes, all hairstyles described use gentle techniques and child-safe products. It’s important to avoid tight pulls or harsh accessories. Using soft elastics and minimizing tension helps prevent hair breakage and scalp discomfort.

Q3: What’s the best hairstyle for toddlers with curly hair? 

Styles like curly puff ponytails, braided crowns, and twisted top knots work beautifully on curly hair. They protect curls, reduce tangles, and enhance natural texture while keeping hair manageable.

Q4: How often should I style my toddler’s hair? 

Frequent styling isn’t necessary. Aim for styles that last one or two days to reduce manipulation and allow the scalp to breathe. Protective and loose hairstyles help maintain hair health in between washes.

Q5: What products should I avoid for toddler hair? 

Avoid adult hair gels, alcohol-based sprays, and heavy waxes that can irritate delicate scalps. Stick to mild, pediatrician-approved shampoos, conditioners, and styling products designed specifically for children.