Cute and Easy Kids Hairstyles for Curly Hair

Kids hairstyles for curly hair should be comfortable, cute, and easy to manage. The right style helps keep curls healthy while letting kids enjoy their natural texture every day.

Curly Ponytail

Honestly, the curly ponytail is one of those styles I keep coming back to because it just works on busy mornings. I’ve done this on my own kid’s hair more times than I can count, especially on school days when we’re already running late. I like keeping it a bit loose instead of pulling everything tight, because tight ponytails and curly hair never really get along. In my opinion, a little softness around the hairline makes it look cuter and keeps complaints away.

When I do a curly ponytail, I lightly spray some water or use a leave-in conditioner first. I gather the curls with my hands, not a brush, because brushing ruins the curl pattern. To be fair, it doesn’t have to be perfect. I usually let a few curls fall around the face, and that actually makes it look styled rather than rushed.

Half Up Curly Bun

I’ve found the half up curly bun is perfect when kids want hair out of their face but still want to show off their curls. This one always feels playful to me, and honestly, kids love it because it looks fun without feeling “too done.” I remember trying this for a birthday party, and it instantly made the whole outfit look more special.

To do it, I take the top section of hair and loosely twist it into a bun. I don’t smooth it too much because curly hair looks best when it’s relaxed. A soft scrunchie works better than tight elastics. In my opinion, the beauty of this style is that the bottom curls stay natural, and if the bun gets messy, it somehow looks even better.

Curly Pigtails

Curly pigtails always make me smile because they feel so full of personality. I used to think pigtails were only for straight hair, but to be fair, they look even cuter on curls. The volume, the bounce, everything just stands out more. I’ve noticed kids feel extra confident when their curls are split evenly on both sides.

I usually part the hair down the middle using my fingers instead of a comb. Then I gather each side gently and secure them low or high depending on the mood. I always remind parents not to pull too tight, because curly roots need room. A little curl cream at the ends helps keep everything defined without making it stiff.

Side Braided Curly Style

In my opinion, the side braided curly style is one of those underrated looks that deserves more love. It feels stylish but still very kid-friendly. I first tried this when I wanted something different from the usual ponytail, and honestly, it looked way more put-together than I expected.

I start by taking a small section on one side and doing a loose braid. I don’t braid the whole head, just enough to add detail. The rest of the curls stay free, which keeps the look soft. I’ve found this style works great for school functions or family outings, and it stays in place better than you’d think.

High Curly Bun

The high curly bun is my go-to when I need everything off the neck, especially in hot weather. To be fair, it’s not always the neatest style, but that’s kind of the point. Curly buns look best when they’re a little messy and full of life.

I flip the hair forward slightly and gather it at the top. I twist it loosely and secure it with a soft band. I don’t tuck in every curl, because those loose ends add character. Honestly, this style holds up well through playtime, and kids rarely complain because it feels light and comfortable.

Curly Space Buns

Curly space buns are pure fun, and I’ll admit, I enjoy doing them just as much as kids enjoy wearing them. The first time I tried this, I wasn’t sure it would work with curls, but it turned out adorable. The volume makes the buns look fuller and more playful.

I part the hair down the center and make two high ponytails. Then I twist each into a bun, keeping it loose. I’ve found that using bobby pins instead of tightening the elastic helps maintain the curl shape. In my opinion, this style is perfect for parties, playdates, or days when kids want something extra.

Loose Natural Curls

Honestly, loose natural curls don’t get enough appreciation. Sometimes the best hairstyle is no hairstyle at all. I’ve learned this over time, especially on days when curls are behaving well. Letting kids wear their curls freely helps them feel proud of their natural texture.

I usually just refresh the curls with water and a bit of leave-in conditioner. I scrunch gently and let it air dry. To be fair, it doesn’t always look “perfect,” but that’s okay. In my opinion, teaching kids to love their curls as they are is more important than any styled look.

Curly Top Knot

The curly top knot is similar to a bun, but it feels a bit more relaxed. I like this style when I want something quick but still cute. Honestly, it’s one of those styles that looks intentional even when done in five minutes.

I gather the hair at the crown and twist it loosely into a knot. I don’t worry about flyaways because curly hair has its own personality. I’ve found that a soft hair tie and a little curl cream around the edges are enough. This style works great for school or casual outings.

Braided Crown with Curls

In my opinion, the braided crown with curls is one of the prettiest styles for curly-haired kids. It feels special and almost fairy-tale-like. I remember doing this for a family wedding, and it stayed beautiful all day.

I braid two small sections from each side and pin them across the head like a crown. The rest of the curls stay loose. I’ve found that keeping the braids loose prevents tension and keeps kids comfortable. Honestly, this style looks more complicated than it actually is, which is always a win.

Curly Low Ponytail

The curly low ponytail is simple, but honestly, simplicity can be powerful. I like this style for school days because it’s calm, neat, and doesn’t pull too much at the scalp. It’s one of those styles kids barely notice they’re wearing.

I gather the hair at the nape of the neck and secure it gently. I usually leave the front a bit loose for softness. A little curl cream on the ponytail keeps the curls defined. In my opinion, this style is perfect for everyday wear when you want curls to shine without fuss.