50 Curly Hairstyle Ideas for Kids
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Curls have a personality all their own. Finding the right curly hairstyles for kids can turn a busy morning into a moment your child actually looks forward to.
Some curls bounce, some coil tight, and some fall in loose waves, and each type deserves styles that celebrate it instead of fighting it. This list is here to make that search simple.
Before picking a style, it helps to know what you are working with. How to Identify Your Child’s Hair Type breaks down the basics if you are still figuring out your child’s curl pattern. Once you know the pattern, styling gets a lot less guesswork and a lot more fun.
These curly hairstyles for kids range from five minute puffs to special occasion updos, so you will find a style for every morning.
A good wash day routine also makes curls easier to style, and The Best Wash Day Routine for Kids is worth a look if wash day still feels like a struggle. Healthy, moisturized curls hold their shape longer no matter which style you choose.
Styling your child’s curls does not need fancy tools or hours of your day.
A few simple styling sessions become part of your routine, and years from now, those mornings spent playing with your child’s curls will be some of the sweetest memories you share.
Grab a comb and a little patience, and find the style your child will love most.
Choosing the Right Curly Style for Your Child
Not every curly style suits every curl pattern, so it helps to think about texture before picking a look.
The Different Kids Hair Textures Explained breaks down the range from loose waves to tight coils, which makes it easier to match a style to what your child actually has.
Length and activity level matter too, since an active kid running around at recess needs something more secure than a loose wash and go.
Use the categories below as a starting point, then adjust based on what holds up best for your child.
Everyday Wash and Go Curly Styles
Some mornings call for something quick and easy.
Wash and go styles work with your child’s natural curl pattern instead of fighting it, so curls stay soft, bouncy, and full of shape.
A little product goes a long way here, and less brushing means less breakage over time.
These eight curly hairstyles for kids are perfect for busy school mornings.
1. Classic Wash and Go
A classic wash and go lets curls dry and define on their own with almost no manipulation.
It suits any curl type and works for short to medium lengths, making it a go to for daily wear.
Apply a curl cream to damp hair, scrunch gently, and let it air dry or diffuse for extra bounce.
2. Curly Pineapple Updo
The pineapple gathers curls loosely at the top of the head to protect the shape while keeping hair off the face.
It works well for long, bouncy curls and is ideal for gym class or hot afternoons.
Loosely tie hair with a scrunchie near the crown, and leave a few face framing curls out for softness.
3. Side Swept Wash and Go
This style pushes the part to one side for a slightly dressed up feel without extra effort.
It flatters medium length curls and works great for school photo mornings.
Part the hair deeply on one side, apply curl cream, and let the curls fall naturally across the forehead.
4. Diffused Curly Fro
A diffused fro adds volume and lift for curls that tend to fall flat.
It works especially well on tighter curl patterns and suits any casual day.
Apply a lightweight mousse, then diffuse on low heat while scrunching upward toward the scalp.
5. Wash and Go with Headband
Adding a headband keeps flyaways down while protecting the hairline from friction.
This style suits medium to long curls and works nicely for playdates or errands.
Style the wash and go as usual, then slide a headband back from the hairline.
6. Loose Curl Shake Out
This relaxed look softens defined curls into a fuller, more tousled shape.
It suits fine to medium curl patterns and fits casual weekend outings.
Once curls are dry, gently shake and fluff sections with your fingers for a looser finish.
7. Curly Fringe Wash and Go
Curly bangs framing the face add a playful update to the everyday wash and go.
It works best on medium length curls and suits toddlers through school age kids alike.
Style the fringe forward with curl cream while the rest of the hair air dries into place.
8. Curly Bob Wash and Go
Shorter curly bobs styled wet and left to dry naturally give a neat, low maintenance shape.
This works well for shorter hair lengths and suits everyday wear or school.
Apply curl cream root to tip, then finger comb into place before it air dries.
Curly Puffs and Ponytails
Puffs and ponytails pull curls up and away from the face without hiding their shape.
They are quick to create and gentle on the scalp when tied with the right accessory.
Many of these curly hairstyles for kids double as protective options since hair stays gathered and tucked.
Pick a few favorites to rotate through the week.
9. Classic Curly Puff
A single high puff shows off natural curl volume while keeping hair fully off the face.
It suits medium to long curls and works for any day of the week.
Gather hair into a high ponytail, then loosen the base gently to create a rounded puff shape.
10. Double Curly Puffs
Two puffs split hair into even sections for a playful, balanced look.
This style suits shorter to medium curls and is popular for toddlers and preschoolers.
Part hair down the middle, secure each side with a soft elastic, and fluff each puff evenly.
11. High Curly Ponytail
Pulling curls into one high ponytail is fast, neat, and keeps hair contained all day.
It works for longer curls and is a favorite for gym days or sports practice.
Smooth hair back with The Best Hair Oils for Children’s Hair, then secure high with a seamless elastic.
12. Low Curly Ponytail
A low ponytail sits gently at the nape for a softer, more relaxed finish.
It suits fine to medium curls and works well for nap time or car rides.
Gather hair low, secure loosely, and let a few curls fall naturally around the face.
13. Side Curly Ponytail
Shifting the ponytail to one side adds a touch of personality to a simple style.
It works on medium to long curls and suits birthday parties or picture day.
Gather hair to one side, secure with a small elastic, and smooth the front section back.
14. Curly Bubble Ponytail
Small elastics placed down the length of a ponytail create fun bubble sections.
This style suits longer curls and is a hit for special outings.
Section the ponytail, add elastics every two inches, and gently fluff each bubble for volume.
15. Curly Puff with Bow
Adding a bow at the base instantly dresses up a simple puff for photos or parties.
It works for any curl length and suits toddlers especially well.
Secure the puff as usual, then clip or tie a bow directly over the elastic.
16. Curly Side Puff
A puff placed off to one side gives an asymmetrical, playful shape.
It suits medium curls and works well paired with a clip on the opposite side.
Gather hair toward one side, secure with an elastic, and loosen gently for fullness.
17. Half Up Curly Puff
Only the top section is gathered into a puff while the rest stays down and loose.
This style suits medium to long curls and works for school or everyday wear.
Section the crown, secure into a small puff, and let the remaining curls fall naturally.
18. Curly Pigtail Puffs
Two rounded puffs sit higher on the head than traditional pigtails for extra bounce.
It suits shorter to medium curls and is a favorite for toddlers.
Part hair evenly down the middle, secure each side high, and loosen for a fuller, rounder shape.
Curly Buns and Updos
Buns and updos keep curls neatly contained while still showing off their shape and texture.
They work well for busy days, dance class, or anytime hair needs to stay put.
These curly hairstyles for kids are gentle when tied loosely and avoided too tightly at the edges.
Rotate through a few options to keep styling simple.
19. Classic Curly Bun
A single rounded bun at the crown keeps curls tidy and out of the way.
It suits medium to long curls and works well for school or quiet afternoons.
Gather hair into a ponytail, twist gently, and wrap around the base before securing.
20. Curly Top Knot
Sitting higher than a classic bun, a top knot adds a bit of playful height.
This style suits medium curls and works for casual days at home.
Gather hair high on the crown, twist loosely, and secure with a soft elastic.
21. Curly Space Buns
Two symmetrical buns give a fun, energetic look kids often love.
It suits medium to long curls and is popular for parties or weekend outings.
Part hair down the middle, twist each side into a bun, and secure evenly on both.
22. Curly Flower Bun
Wrapping curls into a rounded shape resembling flower petals adds a decorative touch.
This style suits longer curls and works beautifully for special occasions.
Twist small sections around the bun base, tucking ends under to mimic petals.
23. Curly Heart Bun
A heart shaped bun is a sweet option for Valentine’s Day or birthday photos.
It suits medium to long curls and takes a bit more patience to shape.
Divide the ponytail in two, twist each half into a loop, and pin together to form a heart.
24. Double Curly Buns with Ribbon
Wrapping ribbon around two buns adds color and a dressed up finish.
This style suits medium curls and works well for recitals or family photos.
Secure two buns as usual, then wrap thin ribbon around each base and tie a small bow.
25. Low Curly Bun
A low bun sits softly at the nape for an elegant, understated look.
It suits longer curls and works nicely for quieter, more formal settings.
Gather hair low, twist gently, and secure close to the neck.
26. Curly Side Bun
Placing the bun off to one side gives a relaxed, asymmetrical finish.
This style suits medium to long curls and pairs well with a simple accessory.
Gather hair to one side, twist into a bun, and secure just above the ear.
Twist Outs and Braid Outs
Twist outs and braid outs give curls extra definition without heat or harsh products.
The Secret to Tear-Free Detangling helps make prep for these styles much smoother.
They work on nearly every curl type and last several days with the right nighttime care.
These curly hairstyles for kids reward a little patience with a lot of texture.
27. Classic Twist Out
Two strand twists set overnight and unraveled the next day create defined, springy curls.
It suits medium to long curls and works well for a fresh weekly style.
Twist damp, moisturized sections, let them dry fully, then gently separate each twist by hand.
28. Bantu Knot Out Curls
Small knots wrapped overnight release into tight, voluminous curls once unraveled.
This style suits shorter to medium curls and adds noticeable volume.
Twist small sections and wrap into knots, then unravel gently in the morning for full curls.
29. Braid Out Curls
Simple three strand braids set overnight create a wavier, looser curl pattern than twists.
It works on medium to long curls and suits everyday wear.
Braid damp, moisturized sections, allow them to dry completely, then unravel and fluff gently.
30. Two Strand Twist Out Puff
Combining a twist out with a puff gives definition on top and volume overall.
This style suits medium curls and works well for school days.
Unravel overnight twists, style the crown or leave it sleek as it is, then gather the defined curls loosely into a puff at the crown.
31. Flat Twist Out with Curls Loose
Flat twists close to the scalp release into curls that stay off the face.
It suits medium to long curls and is a favorite for active kids.
Flat twist sections along the scalp, let them set, then unravel for loose, defined curls.
32. Twist Out Half Up Style
Half of the twist out is gathered up while the rest hangs loose and curly.
This style suits longer curls and works for both school and special occasions.
Unravel the twists fully, then clip or tie back only the top section.
Rod Sets and Curl Defining Styles
Rod sets use tools to shape curls into a uniform, defined pattern that lasts for days.
Leave-In Conditioner vs Hair Milk for Kids can help you pick the right product to prep hair before setting.
These curly hairstyles for kids take a bit more time but reward you with longer lasting curls.
They work especially well before events or photo days.
33. Flexi Rod Set
Bendable flexi rods create smooth, springy ringlets without any heat.
It suits medium to long curls and works well set overnight.
Wrap damp, moisturized sections around each rod, bend the ends to secure, and remove once fully dry.
34. Perm Rod Set
Firmer perm rods create tighter, more defined curls than flexi rods.
This style suits shorter to medium curls and holds well for several days.
Roll small sections tightly around each rod and allow hair to air dry completely before removing.
35. Curlformers Set
These flexible tools pull curls through in a spiral shape for very uniform ringlets.
It works on longer curls and is popular for special occasions.
Thread small sections through each curlformer using the hook tool, then let hair dry fully before releasing.
36. Straw Set Curls
Rolling small sections around plastic straws creates tight, springy coils.
This style suits shorter to medium curls and is a budget friendly option.
Roll damp sections around straws, secure with a small tie, and remove once completely dry.
37. Roller Set Ringlets
Traditional rollers create soft, bouncy curls with a slightly looser pattern.
It suits medium to long curls and works well under a bonnet overnight.
Roll sections onto rollers away from the face, secure, and remove gently the next morning.
38. Finger Coils
Twisting small sections around a single finger creates neat, defined individual curls.
This style suits shorter curls and works well for a fresh, polished look.
Apply curl cream, twist small sections around one finger, and let them set without touching until dry.
Curly Pigtails and Two Section Styles
Splitting hair into two even sections is one of the simplest ways to style curls fast.
Pigtails keep hair off the face while still showing every curl’s natural shape.
The Best Hair Accessories for Kids offers ideas for finishing these curly hairstyles for kids with a little extra flair.
They work well for toddlers through early school age.
39. Classic Curly Pigtails
Two even ponytails split evenly down the middle keep curls simple and secure.
It suits any curl length and works for daily wear.
Part hair down the center, secure each side evenly, and loosen gently for volume.
40. Curly Pigtails with Beads
Adding beads to the ends brings color and playful sound to classic pigtails.
This style suits medium to long curls and is popular for cultural celebrations.
Secure pigtails as usual, then slide beads onto small sections at the ends.
41. High Curly Pigtails
Placing pigtails higher on the head adds extra bounce and a youthful look.
It suits medium curls and works well for active days outside.
Part hair down the middle, secure each side high near the crown, and fluff for volume.
42. Low Curly Pigtails
Lower pigtails sit closer to the ears for a softer, more relaxed style.
This style suits fine to medium curls and works for naps or car rides.
Part hair evenly, secure each side low, and let curls fall naturally.
43. Curly Pigtails with Bows
Large bows at the base turn simple pigtails into a dressed up look for photos.
It suits any curl length and works beautifully for birthdays.
Secure pigtails as usual, then clip or tie a bow directly over each elastic.
44. Half Up Curly Pigtails
Only the top sections are gathered while the rest of the curls stay down.
This style suits medium to long curls and works for school or weekend outings.
Section the crown into two, secure each with a small elastic, and leave the rest loose.
Special Occasion Curly Updos
Some days call for a little extra effort, and these styles are worth saving for.
They take more time than an everyday look but hold beautifully through long events.
How to Build a Healthy Hair Routine for Kids can help keep curls strong enough to handle more elaborate styling.
These curly hairstyles for kids are perfect for graduations, recitals, and family photos.
45. Curly Crown Braid with Loose Curls
A single braid wraps around the crown while the rest of the curls hang free.
It suits long curls and works beautifully for graduation or recital photos.
Braid a section across the hairline, pin it around the crown, and leave the remaining curls loose.
46. Curly Half Up with Butterfly Clips
Small clips gathered along the crown create a whimsical, dressed up half up style.
This style suits medium to long curls and is a favorite for spring photos.
Section small pieces along the crown and secure each with a butterfly clip.
47. Curly Updo with Pearl Pins
Pinning curls up loosely with pearl accents gives an elegant, formal finish.
It suits long curls and works well for weddings or family portraits.
Gather hair loosely at the crown, pin in sections, and add pearl pins throughout for shine.
48. Curly High Bun with Flowers
Small floral clips tucked into a high bun add a soft, celebratory touch.
This style suits medium to long curls and is popular for spring events.
Secure a high bun as usual, then tuck small flower clips around the base.
49. Curly Mohawk Puffs
Sides are parted and pulled back smoothly while the center is sectioned into a row of small curly puffs for extra dimension.
It suits medium to long curls and works well for dress-up days or picture day.
Part the sides cleanly and pull back, then section the center into two or three small puffs, securing each and fluffing for volume.
50. Curly Braided Ponytail
A braid woven into the base feeds into a ponytail full of loose, bouncy curls for a polished finish.
It suits long curls and works beautifully for graduations or family photos.
Braid a section from the hairline back into the ponytail base, securing the rest of the curls loose behind it.
Practical Tips for Styling Curly Hair
A few small habits make every one of these curly hairstyles for kids easier to achieve.
Style hair while it is still damp, since dry curls are harder to shape and more likely to frizz.
How to Moisturize Kids Hair Properly goes deeper into the products and layering that keep curls soft between styles.
Working in smaller sections also gives more even, lasting definition than tackling the whole head at once.
Keep a satin bonnet or scarf on hand for overnight protection, since cotton pillowcases pull moisture straight out of curls.
Satin Bonnets for Kids: Do They Help? explains exactly how much of a difference this simple step makes.
A light mist of water in the morning can also refresh curls without a full restyle.
A healthy scalp also supports better curl definition, since buildup and dryness at the roots can make styles fall flat faster.
How to Keep Kids’ Scalp Healthy covers simple habits that keep the scalp in good shape between wash days.
Gentle scalp massages during wash day can also help distribute natural oils more evenly through the curls.
Patience matters just as much as products for styling curls well.
Curls often look messier right after being unraveled from a twist out or rod set, and they usually settle into shape within an hour or two.
Resist the urge to add more product or restyle too soon, since curls need a little time to fall into place on their own.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even simple curly hairstyles for kids can go wrong with a few easy to make mistakes.
Pulling any style too tight strains the hairline and can lead to breakage over time.
Could Your Child’s Hair Accessories Be Causing Breakage? covers this in more detail if edges seem thinner than they should be.
Choosing the wrong accessory or skipping moisture before styling are two more common slip ups worth watching for.
Styling completely dry, unmoisturized curls is another frequent mistake that leads to frizz and breakage.
The Hidden Mistake That Could Be Drying Out Your Child’s Hair explains one surprising cause of dryness many parents overlook.
Skipping detangling before styling can also cause knots that undo a style within hours.
Rushing through a style on a tired or restless child rarely ends well, and it usually shows in the finished look.
Why Your Child’s Hairstyles Never Last Until the End of the Day explains how timing and mood affect how long a style actually holds up.
Picking a calm moment for styling makes almost every one of these curly hairstyles for kids easier to get right.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should curly hairstyles be changed?
Most curly hairstyles for kids can stay in for three to five days with proper nighttime care.
Wash and go looks are usually refreshed daily, while puffs and buns can last a bit longer.
Watch for tangling at the roots as a sign it is time to restyle.
How Often Should You Wash Your Child’s Hair? offers more guidance on timing.
What products work best for curly hair?
A leave-in conditioner or curl cream applied to damp hair gives the best hold and definition.
Heavier butters and oils work well for sealing moisture in afterward.
Lighter products tend to suit finer curl patterns better than thick ones.
Testing a few options helps you find what your child’s curls respond to best.
Can toddlers wear these curly hairstyles?
Many of these styles, especially puffs, pigtails, and simple buns, work well for toddlers.
Choose looser, quicker styles for younger kids who may not sit still for long.
Avoid anything that pulls tightly at the hairline on delicate toddler hair.
Simpler is almost always better for the littlest ones.
How do I keep curls from tangling overnight?
A satin bonnet or pillowcase reduces friction that causes tangles while sleeping.
Loosely braiding or twisting hair before bed also helps keep curls separated.
The One Hair Care Habit That Causes More Tangles Than You Think shares one small change that makes a big difference.
A light detangling spray in the morning helps smooth out any remaining knots.
How can I encourage healthier curl growth over time?
Gentle handling, regular moisture, and protective nighttime routines all support stronger curl growth over time.
How to Encourage Healthy Hair Growth in Kids covers habits that make the biggest difference beyond just styling.
Trimming split ends occasionally also keeps curls looking fuller and healthier.
Growth takes patience, but small consistent habits add up.
Why does wash day feel harder with curly hair?
Curly hair often takes longer to detangle, wash, and style than straighter textures, which can make wash day feel overwhelming.
The Real Reason Wash Day Feels So Difficult points out one common timing mistake that makes the whole process harder than it needs to be.
Breaking wash day into smaller, calmer steps usually helps.
Picking the right moment for your child matters just as much as the products you use.
Final Thoughts
With fifty curly hairstyles for kids to choose from, there is no reason to run out of ideas anytime soon.
Rotate between quick everyday looks and more special occasion styles depending on the day ahead.
Healthy, moisturized curls always style easier than dry ones, so keeping up with routine care pays off.
Signs Your Child’s Hair Is Healthy is a helpful next read if you want to make sure those curls are getting everything they need to thrive.
The Best Scalp Care Routine for Children rounds things out nicely if you want to build styling into a fuller care routine rather than a one time event.
Every curl pattern is a little different, and part of the fun is discovering which of these styles your child loves most.
Keep a few favorites in regular rotation and save the rest for days that call for something special.
