Back to school means back to busy mornings filled with quick breakfasts, homework checking, packing lunches and—if you have a curly kid—quick hair styling that will hopefully withstand the school day.
Styling a boy’s hair is usually considered a relatively low maintenance task, but girls shouldn’t have all the fun when it comes to curly hair inspo. While some kids might be perfectly happy with any style, it’s always a treat to send your young one off with a style that’s as unique and effortlessly cool as they are. Read on for a few hairstyle ideas (including some protective styles”> for curly boys that will have them excited to show off their look whether it’s for class, extracurricular activities, or play-time.
1. Braided Ponytails
Image Credit: @bbhulkrj
Low-manipulation styles like these braided pigtails keep things simple for rushed parents, but also keep the ends of long, delicate curly hair protected so there’s less chance for breakage. And as uncomplicated as this style is, there’s no doubt this is one of the coolest looks around.
2. Faded Mohawk
Image Credit: @jessica.salonoriana
Looking for some back-to-school haircut ideas? We’re loving stylist Jessica Oriana’s mohawk transformation on this adorable Spider-Man fan.
3. Braided Bun
Image Credit: @latelier.regent
For kids that might go for something a little more intricate, patterned cornrows are a great option. Styles like this one are protective, long-lasting, and stand out in the crowd.
4. Twisted Ponytails
Image Credit: @tonys_tv
Calling all parents/guardians that don’t quite have braiding down to a science (fear not, you’ll get there, we promise!”>—twists are the next best thing. This style works on various hair lengths and can be altered to fit you and your little one’s needs. For an even more personalized look, switch out the regular black rubber bands for colorful ones.
5. Twisted Locs
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Little boys with locs might be interested in this flat-twisted faded style. This one looks complicated, but you can create something similar to this look by splitting the hair down the middle and flat-twisted each side.
6. Textured High-Top Fade
Image Credit: @billionairesbarberclub
A nod to the high-top fades of the ‘80’s and ‘90’s, the modern high-top includes a lot more texture. This cut shows off beautiful texture and also length with a clean shape up.
7. Natural Curls
Image Credit: @katchingupwithkenzo
With a good detangler, moisturizer and styler, a simple wash-and-go can be your go-to morning style. Make sure to have the right styling products for your kiddo’s texture for the best results.
8. Half-Braided, Half-Twisted
Image Credit: @tahchonmusic
When styling longer curly hair it helps to create as little work as possible. And with this half-braided, half-twisted look you have two styles in one. Remove protective styles like this one, and you’ll have a defined braid/twist-out.
9. Defined Ponytail
Image Credit: @k.liam18
Define your curly kid’s ringlets to the max to achieve a look similar to this. For the best hold, look into getting a really good gel, like these stylist-recommended ones.
10. Bald Mohawk
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If you have a particularly adventurous kid, this bald mohawk may be more his speed. It takes a super confident kid to wear bald sides, but the result is worth it!
11. Rounded High-Top Cut
Image Credit: @beckettandfallon
One thing about curly hair, it can make shapes like no other texture. This cut is higher on the top with a bit of a rounded shape.
12. Two-Strand Twists
Image Credit: @iamshilohamor
If refreshed and taken care of, two-strand twists can last for days and can be styled differently each day. If you’re not in the mood for more styling, you can always accessorize with a hat like Eli, pictured above.
Do you have plans to change up your curly kid’s hair soon? Let us know what ideas you have in mind below.
