25 Fun Hairstyles for Toddlers That Are Cute, Easy, and Perfect for Playtime

Introduction

Toddlers are full of energy, giggles, and endless charm—but getting them to sit still for a hairstyle? That can be a challenge! The good news? With the right approach and a touch of creativity, doing your toddler’s hair can become a joyful part of your morning routine.

Whether you’re heading out for daycare, a playdate, or snapping a few sweet photos for grandma, these 25 fun hairstyles for toddlers are all about ease, comfort, and lots of cuteness. In fact, a study from the National Parenting Institute shows that toddlers feel more confident and comfortable when their hair is tidy and out of their face. It’s a win-win!

In this article, we’ll walk you through each style with practical tips for different hair types—from straight and fine to coily and thick. These styles are budget-friendly, require minimal tools, and will keep your little one looking adorable all day long.

1. Classic Double Pigtails Double pigtails are a timeless toddler staple—easy to do and cute as a button.

• Simply part the hair down the middle and tie two ponytails.
• Works for all hair lengths.
• Use no-pull elastics and colorful bows to make it playful.

This style is perfect for active toddlers who like to move. Plus, it’s easy to refresh mid-day with just a quick water spritz.

2. Mini Buns (Space Buns) Want something trendy and secure? Mini buns (also called space buns) are the way to go.

• Divide hair into two sections and twist each into a bun.
• Secure with soft elastics and bobby pins if needed.
• Add sparkly clips for extra fun.

Perfect for birthday parties or just a sunny day at the park, space buns are one of the most fun toddler hairstyles trending today.

3. Side Ponytail Quick, charming, and great for toddler hair that tends to tangle.

• Comb hair to one side and gather into a ponytail.
• Works best on shoulder-length or longer hair.
• Add a large clip-on flower or bow.

It takes just seconds and looks like you spent time on it. It’s also great for toddlers who don’t like things tugging at the back of their head.

4. Tiny Top Knot If your toddler has short or fine hair, this is a game-changer.

• Gather hair at the crown and twist into a mini knot.
• Secure with a soft tie.
• Use a soft-bristle brush to smooth flyaways.

The tiny top knot is perfect for toddlers who are always on the move. It keeps hair out of the eyes without a lot of fuss.

5. Curly Puff For toddlers with natural curls, a high puff is adorable and easy.

• Use a wide-tooth comb to gather curls.
• Puff it up using a satin scrunchie.
• Mist lightly with water to define curls.

This style celebrates natural texture and requires minimal styling products, making it gentle on your toddler’s hair and scalp.

6. Braided Pigtails Ready to level up from regular pigtails? Add some braid action.

• Create two sections and braid each.
• Use small elastics and decorate with beads or clips.
• Ideal for longer hair.

These braids hold up well throughout the day and look neat and tidy, even during nap time.

7. Mini French Braid A stylish option for school or events.

• Start with a small section near the part and work a French braid toward the back.
• Pin or secure with a clip.
• Great for medium to long hair.

French braids stay secure and are a great way to practice your braiding skills while styling your little one.

8. Side Braid with Bow Add a dash of sweetness with this elegant style.

• Start at one side of the head and braid across.
• Tie off with a satin ribbon or bow.
• Pairs beautifully with dresses.

This one works well for both fine and thick toddler hair and holds through most daily adventures.

9. Fountain Ponytail Named for the way it sticks up like a fountain, this is a crowd favorite.

• Gather hair at the top center of the head.
• Use a soft elastic and let the ponytail spray out.
• Use a colorful scrunchie for flair.

It’s especially cute on toddlers with short or medium-length hair and brings a fun, animated look.

10. Crown Twist An elegant look with minimal effort.

• Twist small sections from each side and join at the back.
• Secure with a clip or tie.
• Keeps hair off the forehead.

This style gives a “princess” vibe that many toddlers adore and it doesn’t require any heat or product.

11. Half-Up Mini Buns A playful combo that gives the best of both worlds.

• Pull half the hair into two buns.
• Leave the rest down.
• Use soft ties and clips.

This is a practical choice for toddlers with fine or thinning hair and gives plenty of style with little effort.

12. Simple Hair Clip Look Sometimes, less is more.

• Use themed or colorful clips to pin hair on one side.
• Best for short or growing hair.
• Takes under 30 seconds.

This is the go-to option for the busiest mornings when you’re racing against the clock.

13. Double Side Buns Add a whimsical twist with symmetrical side buns.

• Part hair in the middle and twist each side into a bun.
• Secure with soft elastics.
• Add tiny bows to each bun.

Great for theme days, holidays, or just when your toddler wants to feel extra special.

14. Mini Afro Puffs Celebrate natural texture with dual puff style.

• Part the hair in two and gather each section.
• Puff each up with gentle tension.
• Moisturize with leave-in conditioner.

These puffs stay looking fresh all day and are one of the most comfortable styles for curly hair.

15. Twisted Bangs Managing bangs while growing them out? Try this.

• Twist small front sections and pin them.
• Works great with ponytails.
• Helps avoid hair in the eyes.

This easy fix turns a frustrating hair stage into a cute moment.

16. Wavy Headband Style When you want to let their hair down but still keep it neat.

• Brush hair out and smooth with a soft headband.
• Works well for naturally wavy hair.
• Use adjustable headbands for comfort.

Headbands are gentle and perfect for picture days.

17. Side Clip and Loose Hair Simplicity at its finest.

• Just part to one side and clip.
• Works even for very short hair.
• Add a bow or barrette for flair.

An easy everyday hairstyle that doesn’t require a mirror or comb.

18. Heart-Shaped Braids Perfect for special occasions.

• Part hair in a heart shape and braid each half.
• Secure with colored elastics.
• Add glitter or accessories.

It’s a bit more effort but absolutely worth it for birthdays or Valentine’s Day.

19. Zig-Zag Part with Ponytails Add a funky vibe to your usual part.

• Create a zig-zag part with a comb.
• Tie into two ponytails.
• Fun and sporty.

Great for expressive toddlers who like things to stand out.

20. Topsy Tail Flip A little twist that makes a big impact.

• Create a ponytail, part the base, and flip it in.
• Adds visual interest.
• Holds better than a basic ponytail.

This one’s a favorite for soft, fine toddler hair.

21. Side Puff with Ribbon Just one puff, placed stylishly.

• Gather hair to one side.
• Add a ribbon for extra cuteness.
• Quick and photogenic.

This look is great for both curly and wavy toddler hair.

22. Wrapped Ponytail Add a pro touch to your regular ponytail.

• Wrap a strand around the elastic.
• Secure underneath with a bobby pin.
• Looks polished and chic.

It’s a great toddler hair hack when you want a little more elegance.

23. Half-Up Twist Soft, romantic, and functional.

• Twist sections from both sides and tie at the back.
• Keeps hair neat but loose.
• No tugging or pulling.

Works beautifully for thin or straight hair.

24. Headband Braid Braids meet accessories.

• Braid a front section and wrap it like a headband.
• Pin behind the ear.
• No heat needed.

Perfect for dress-up or family photos.

25. Mini Cornrows Protective, stylish, and long-lasting.

• Braid small sections tight to the scalp.
• Lasts for up to a week with care.
• Great for textured hair.

They’re practical and reduce morning hair stress.

Conclusion

Hairstyling your toddler doesn’t have to be a battle—it can be a chance for connection, creativity, and confidence. With these 25 easy, fun hairstyles, you’ll have something in your pocket for every mood, event, or morning rush. Whether you’re working with curls, waves, or fine strands, there’s a toddler hairstyle here that will make both of you smile.