Curly Hairstyles For Toddlers can convert your little one’s natural texture into adorable, manageable looks that both you and your child will love. Many parents find themselves puzzled when styling delicate curls without causing discomfort or damage.
Understanding your toddler’s specific curl type is the first step toward choosing hairstyles that work with their natural hair rather than against it. These styling methods promote healthy hair growth and reduce the daily struggle many parents face during hair time.
Curly Hairstyles For Toddlers (35+ Ideas)
1. Side-swept cornrow Braids
Start by sectioning the hair from one side and braiding it in graceful curves across the scalp. The secret to this gorgeous look is leaving those natural curls loose at the ends, which adds incredible movement and bounce.
This protective style keeps your little one’s hair healthy while looking fabulous. It’s perfect for active toddlers who love to play but still want to look stylish!
2. Twisted Spiral Curls
Make your twist hairstyles more fun by using colorful rubber bands just like this! The bright blue elastics not only look super cool but also keep each section of hair perfectly in place while you create those gorgeous spiral twists.
This technique works amazingly well for naturally curly hair; each twist shows off the beautiful texture while protecting it from tangles. It’s an easy way to jazz up your toddler’s look with a burst of color that’ll make them smile every time they see themselves in the mirror!
#25. Half-Up Cornrow Crown with Natural Texture
This versatile hybrid style combines protective cornrows across the crown section with free-flowing natural curls throughout the remaining length. Multiple parallel cornrows secure the top portion of hair, creating organized sections that flow from the hairline toward the crown area.
The back and sides showcase the hair’s natural curl pattern, allowing for beautiful texture contrast against the sleek cornrowed crown. This dual technique approach offers the protective benefits of braiding, where hair experiences the most manipulation while celebrating natural curl definition in the remaining sections.
4. Purple Bow Paradise with Rubber Band Sections
This hairstyle features the sweetest combination of small sectioned ponytails decorated with bright purple rubber bands and topped off with matching purple bows.
The hair is parted into a grid-like pattern, creating multiple small sections that keep her beautiful curls organized and tangle-free.
The curly hair in the back flows freely, giving her the best of both worlds: styled sections in front and natural curls cascading behind.
5. Double Bun Cuteness with Pink Scrunchies
Her curly hair has been parted down the middle and gathered into two high ponytails, then twisted into fun, bouncy buns on top of her head.
Pink gingham scrunchies add such a cute, vintage-inspired touch that perfectly complements her playful personality.
Those natural curls peeking out from the buns give it that perfectly imperfect, little-kid charm that’s just irresistible.
6. Curly Top Knots with Face-Framing Spirals
Beautiful little girl is sporting an elegant updo that’s both practical and stunning! Her hair is sectioned and secured into multiple small ponytails that are then twisted into mini buns across the top of her head, held with white hair ties.
The real showstopper here is those gorgeous spiral curls left to frame her face; they’re picture-perfect! This style keeps most of her hair up and out of the way while still showcasing her natural curl pattern.
7. Blue Butterfly Sectioned Style
Her curly hair is sectioned into small ponytails across the front and sides, each secured with tiny blue rubber bands and decorated with matching butterfly clips.
The natural curls are left loose in the back, creating a beautiful contrast between the structured front sections and the free-flowing curls.
The butterfly theme adds such a whimsical, childhood magic touch that makes this hairstyle enchanting and perfect for everyday adventures.
8. Spiral Curl Sectioned Ponytails
Her hair is divided into neat sections all over her head, with each section twisted into tiny ponytails that spiral into the most beautiful curls. The pink hair ties scattered throughout add just the right pop of color against her dark hair.
This style is brilliant for showcasing those natural curls while keeping everything manageable. It’s like having a head full of tiny springs!
Best for busy toddlers who need their hair to stay put but still want to look adorable. Those curls are just bouncing with personality and life.
9. Cornrow Mohawk with Curly Top
This stunning little girl is rocking a fierce cornrow mohawk that’s both edgy and elegant! Multiple braids run from her forehead straight back, creating clean lines that lead up to a fabulous curly puff at the crown.
The precision of those braids is incredible – they’re so neat and perfectly spaced. She’s channeling some serious attitude with this look!
The contrast between the sleek braided sections and the voluminous curly top creates such a striking visual. This hairstyle screams confidence and style, perfect for a little fashionista.
10. Geometric Cornrow Masterpiece
Little one’s hair features an intricate geometric pattern of cornrows that create the most amazing starburst design. The braids radiate outward from the center, forming beautiful symmetrical patterns that look like they belong in a hair museum.
Two fluffy puffs at the top complete this masterpiece. The skill and patience required for this style is incredible; it’s like mathematical precision meets beautiful braiding.
This protective style will last for weeks while keeping her hair healthy and protected. She’s going to turn heads wherever she goes with this show-stopping look!
#21. Double Puff Ponytails with Zigzag Parts
Two gorgeous, voluminous puff ponytails sit high on either side of her head, creating the most adorable symmetrical look.
Each puff is full of bouncy, healthy curls that have amazing texture and dimension. What makes this style extra special is the creative zigzag parting pattern that connects the two puffs. It’s like a geometric design carved right into her hair!
The colorful small elastics in pink and purple add playful pops of color throughout the sectioned areas. This protective style is not only incredibly cute but also keeps her natural curls healthy while making a bold fashion statement. The day feels like a fairytale adventure.
12. Side-Swept Cornrow Cascade
The sweet little one is sporting a beautiful asymmetrical cornrow style that’s both modern and timeless! The braids sweep gracefully from one side of her head to the other, creating lovely curved lines that follow the natural shape of her head.
Tiny pink butterfly clips add the perfect finishing touch, looking like little butterflies have landed in her hair. The loose curls cascading down complete this gorgeous look.
13. Zigzag Parts
Convert your toddler’s curly hair into a masterpiece with creative zigzag parting! This technique creates amazing geometric patterns on the scalp that look stunning. Gather the sectioned hair into multiple high pigtails and top them with beautiful striped bows for that extra special touch.
The zigzag parts might take a little patience, but the results are worth it. Your little one will feel like the most stylish kid on the playground with this eye-catching hairstyle that celebrates their natural curls!
14. Curved Cornrows
Create flowing, wave-like cornrows that curve beautifully around your toddler’s head for an artistic look that’s pure magic. These elegant braids gather into a textured bun at the back, secured with bright green hair ties that add a fun pop of color.
The curved cornrows follow the head’s natural shape perfectly, creating a stunning visual effect. It’s like turning your little one’s hair into wearable art that’ll last for days!
15. Multi-Section Twist Ponytails
Create multiple small ponytails across the head using those helpful blue rubber bands to keep everything secure. Each section gets twisted beautifully before being gathered into its little ponytail.
This technique works wonders for managing thick, curly hair while creating a fun geometric pattern on the scalp. It’s best for busy mornings when you want something that looks intricate but keeps those gorgeous curls perfectly contained!
16. Diamond Pattern Sectioning
Use alternating pink and green rubber bands to secure each diamond-shaped section, creating a stunning geometric design that looks like a work of art. Each section gets its little ponytail at the bottom, making this style both beautiful and practical.
The colorful elastics add such a playful touch while keeping every curl perfectly in place. This look will make your little one the star of any playground with its eye-catching pattern!
17. High Side Ponytails
This simple yet stylish look lets those gorgeous coily curls take center stage while keeping them neat and manageable. Just part the hair down the middle and gather each side into a high ponytail – it’s that easy!
The beauty of this style lies in how it celebrates natural texture without any complicated braiding or twisting. Perfect for playdates, or whenever you want your little one to feel confident showing off their beautiful natural curls!
18. Decorative Braids with Hair Jewelry
These thick, chunky braids look amazing on their own, but adding those beautiful metallic and patterned beads creates pure magic. The combination of gold, black, and white beads gives this protective style an elegant, almost regal appearance.
This technique not only keeps curly hair healthy and protected but also turns your little one into a true style icon. The beads add weight that helps the braids hang beautifully while creating a gorgeous movement with every step!
19. Salon braided hairstyle
This little beauty is showing off how colorful accessories can totally transform regular cornrows into something special. Those rainbow spirals aren’t just cute – they help keep each braid section perfectly in place.
The neat rows frame her face beautifully while the bright colors add that playful touch every kid loves. It’s such a smart way to make protective styling feel more exciting. Plus, those colorful ties make it easy to spot if any braids need touching up later!
20. Natural curly updo
Celebrate those gorgeous natural curls with an elegant updo that’s perfect for special occasions! This sweet girl’s curls are gently gathered into beautiful high buns that show off her amazing texture.
The style keeps all those lovely curls contained while still letting them shine. It’s fancy enough for parties but gentle enough to protect her hair.
You can see how the curls naturally want to bounce and spiral – this updo works with that instead of fighting against it.
21. Braided pigtails
Massive pink bows are stealing the show! This hairstyle starts with careful braiding from the scalp, then transitions into cute pigtails topped with those incredible oversized bows.
The braids keep everything neat and secure, while those fluffy pink ribbons add serious princess vibes. It’s the kind of style that makes any little girl feel extra special.
22. Sectioned braided style
Each square section features a small braid that leads to a tiny ponytail with colorful elastics. The pattern created by all those sections looks like a beautiful puzzle across her head.
It’s practical because every piece of hair has its secure spot, but it’s also super cute with all those bright little hair ties. This style would be best for active kids since nothing can escape its designated section. Smart styling that looks as good as it works!
23. Sectioned pompom festival style
Convert basic sectioning into a party on your little one’s head with colorful pom-poms and flower clips! This genius style divides the hair into neat triangular sections, each secured with the most adorable accessories.
The tiny flower clips scattered across the top add such a sweet garden party vibe. It’s like turning your child’s head into a fun playground where every section gets its special decoration!
24. Side-swept cornrow elegance
This sophisticated cornrow style sweeps elegantly to one side, creating beautiful curved lines that frame the face perfectly. The rich brown beads add such an earthy, natural touch that complements the hair beautifully.
It’s amazing how those beads not only secure the braids but also create this gorgeous rhythmic pattern as they hang. This style proves that protective braiding can be both practical and gorgeous.
25. Triangle-parted curly sections
Create the cutest geometric pattern with triangle sections that celebrate those beautiful natural curls! Each little section gets its tiny ponytail secured with colorful elastics, while that adorable polka-dot bow steals the show on top.
The triangular parting creates such an interesting visual pattern across the scalp. It’s a brilliant way to keep curly hair organized while still letting those gorgeous spirals shine through in each section!
26. Full-head box braid masterpiece
These box braids cascade down beautifully with those gorgeous curled ends that add such movement and flair. The neat sectioning across the scalp creates perfect squares that showcase the precision of this protective style.
Against that dreamy floral backdrop, this hairstyle looks regal. It’s the kind of style that grows beautifully and can last for weeks while keeping hair healthy and protected underneath.
27. Starburst pattern ponytails
Each section radiates out from center points, creating these amazing geometric patterns that look like little suns across the head. Those bright yellow flower clips are the perfect finishing touch; they’re like little sunshine bursts that complement the whole sunny vibe.
It’s clever styling that turns mathematical precision into something absolutely beautiful and playful. Perfect for kids who love standing out with unique, eye-catching styles.
28. Sectioned Ponytails with Geometric Parts
Her hair is divided into neat triangular sections using precise zigzag parts, with each section secured into small ponytails with black hair ties. The geometric pattern created by the parting gives this everyday style a fun, modern twist.
The curly ends peeking out from each ponytail add a sweet touch. This style works great for school, playdates, or any time you want a hairstyle that’ll last all day without much fuss.
29. Natural Texture Celebration with Confetti Accents
This joyful style embraces natural curl patterns while adding festive sparkle through colorful confetti pieces scattered throughout one side of the hair. The technique involves defining existing curls using moisturizing products to enhance bounce and separation, creating beautiful volume and movement.
This wash-and-go-inspired approach celebrates natural hair texture while incorporating playful party elements perfect for birthdays, holidays, or special celebrations. The minimal manipulation required makes it gentle on delicate strands, while the confetti adds a magical appeal that children adore.
30. Rainbow Sectioned Ponytail Party
Secure each section with bright yellow elastics, making sure to keep the tension gentle to avoid discomfort. Twist each section slightly before securing to enhance the natural curl pattern. The key is working systematically from front to back, ensuring each ponytail is evenly spaced.
Add those adorable yellow bow clips at the base of each section for extra flair. This cheerful style works perfectly for summer parties or any day your little one wants to feel extra special. The yellow accessories create a cohesive, sunny look that’s irresistible.
31. Triple Puff Crown Tutorial
Create the top puff first by gathering hair from the crown area and securing it with a golden elastic. For the side puffs, collect hair from the temple areas, making sure both sections are symmetrical.
Gently tease each puff to maximize volume and showcase those beautiful curls. The secret is not pulling too tight – you want bouncy, fluffy puffs that move naturally. This versatile style keeps hair manageable while looking adorable.
32. Butterfly Braid Garden Design
Braid each section loosely to maintain curl integrity, then secure with small clear elastics. Create varying heights with your puffs to add dimension and movement.
The magic happens when you add those vibrant green butterfly clips – place them strategically throughout the style for maximum impact. Finish by gently fluffing each curly section to create volume.
The butterflies seem to flutter through the curls, creating an enchanting garden effect that’s both practical and beautiful.
33. Rainbow Sectioned Side Puff Creation
Section the hair into small triangular parts across one side of the head using precise zigzag patterns. Secure each section with colorful mini elastics – alternate between pink, orange, and yellow for that vibrant rainbow effect.
Gather all the sectioned hair to one side and create a large, voluminous puff using a final elastic. The key is maintaining gentle tension to protect delicate curls while achieving maximum bounce. Finish by fluffing the puff to showcase those gorgeous natural curls.
34. Pink Princess Double Puff Tutorial
Create multiple small triangular sections on each side using creative zigzag patterns for visual interest. Secure each tiny section with clear or pink mini elastics, working systematically from front to back. Gather each side into high ponytails, then twist and wrap to form adorable puff buns.
The secret is keeping the puffs loose and bouncy rather than tight. This symmetrical style creates the best balance, while those pink accessories add just the right amount of princess sparkle for special occasions.
35. Multi-Colored Geometric Puff Design
Begin by sectioning the hair into a creative geometric pattern across the head using angular parts. Create small ponytails with different colored elastics – use pink, purple, green, and yellow to achieve that playful rainbow look.
Work in rows from front to back, ensuring each section is evenly sized. Gather sections strategically to create multiple puffs at varying heights for dimension.
This dynamic style combines structured sectioning with free-flowing curls, perfect for active toddlers who want maximum style with minimal fuss.
