40 Playful and Practical Kids Hairstyles for Short Hair
Short hair can be just as versatile and stylish as long hair, especially when it comes to kids’ hairstyles. Whether you’re looking for a quick everyday look or something special for an occasion, there are plenty of playful and practical styles to choose from.
This list of 40 fun and easy hairstyles for short hair will help keep your child’s hair neat while showcasing their personality. From cute ponytails to creative braids, these styles are designed to be both adorable and hassle-free!
1. Mini Pigtails
Mini pigtails are a perfect way to style short hair while keeping it neat. Simply divide the hair into two sections and secure each side with cute hair ties or bows. This look works for school, playdates, and casual outings, giving your child a fun and playful appearance.
2. Side Swept Bangs with Clips
For kids with bangs, a side-swept style with decorative clips can keep hair out of their face while adding a stylish touch. Use colourful clips, bows, or glitter accessories to match their outfit. This style is quick, practical, and great for both casual and formal occasions.
3. Mini Braided Crown
A small braided crown is a great way to style short hair while keeping it tidy. Create two small braids on each side and pin them back with cute hair clips. For more kids hairstyles for special events, this princess-inspired look is a standout, offering a polished yet effortless appearance.
4. Messy Bun with Headband
A messy bun on short hair adds a playful and stylish look. Gather the hair into a small bun at the back and secure it with a band. Adding a cute headband or bow completes the look, making it ideal for school, parties, or fun outings.
5. Double Twists with Beads
This hairstyle adds a bit of fun and flair to short hair. Divide the front section into two, twist each side, and secure with elastic bands. Adding small beads at the ends makes it even cuter. This look works well for both casual days and special events.
6. Faux Hawk
A faux hawk is a trendy and easy style for kids with short hair. Simply apply a light styling gel and push the middle section of the hair upward to create a lifted look. It’s a fun way to give your child a cool, confident hairstyle for any occasion.
7. Half-Up Top Knot
A half-up top knot is a trendy yet easy way to style short hair. Gather the top section of hair into a small bun on the crown and secure it with a hair tie. This style is great for active kids who need a practical yet stylish look.
8. Tiny Bantu Knots
Bantu knots work wonderfully on short hair and provide a cute, cultural style. Divide the hair into small sections, twist each one tightly, and wrap it into a mini knot. For more protective hairstyles for African kids, this one keeps hair healthy and stylish for days.
9. Front Row Braids
A row of small braids at the front of the head adds a unique touch to short hair. This look is stylish, keeps hair away from the face, and works well for school or events. Add small accessories like beads or colourful elastics for extra charm.
10. Side Ponytail with Ribbon
Even short hair can rock a ponytail! Gather hair into a low side ponytail and tie it with a bright ribbon. This simple yet elegant style is perfect for school or a day out, adding a soft, girly touch while keeping hair neat.
11. Braided Bangs
If your child has bangs, braiding them to one side is a cute and practical way to keep hair out of their face. Simply create a small braid along the hairline and secure it with a tiny clip or band. This style is great for school days and playful outings.
12. Short Hair Bubble Pigtails
Bubble pigtails are fun and easy! Divide the hair into two sections, secure with small elastics, and add more bands down each ponytail to create a “bubble” effect. This adorable style works well for toddlers and young kids, adding a playful and energetic look to their short hair.
13. Twisted Side Ponytail
For a charming yet simple look, gather the hair into a low side ponytail and add a small twist before securing it with an elastic. This quick style works well for school mornings and keeps short hair tidy while adding a bit of flair with minimal effort.
14. Short Hair Cornrows
Cornrows are an excellent protective hairstyle for short hair. Small, neat braids close to the scalp can be styled in creative patterns. For more ideas that celebrate texture, visit our guide on kids hairstyles for afro hair and find styles perfect for school and celebrations.
15. Double Dutch Braids
Even with short hair, double Dutch braids can be achieved by tightly braiding close to the scalp. Starting at the front, work towards the back, securing with small elastics. This sporty yet cute hairstyle is perfect for school, active play, or special events.
16. Space Buns
Space buns add a fun and trendy touch to short hair! Simply divide the hair into two equal sections and twist each one into a small bun on top of the head. Secure with elastics and accessories with clips or ribbons. This playful style is perfect for any occasion.
17. Mini French Braids
French braids may seem tricky with short hair, but small ones along the sides or top of the head create an adorable and stylish look. Secure the ends with tiny hair ties or clips. This practical hairstyle keeps hair in place while adding an elegant touch.
18. Short Hair Side Bun
A side bun is a cute and quick way to style short hair. Gather the hair to one side, twist it into a bun, and secure it with a hair tie or small pins. This easy hairstyle looks stylish while keeping hair neatly out of the way.
19. Headband Braid
A headband braid is a creative way to style short hair while keeping it neat. Braid across the front to mimic a headband and add accessories. You can also explore more wedding hairstyles for children if you’re styling for a big day.
20. Messy Waves with Hair Clips
For a soft and natural look, create gentle waves using a curling wand or by braiding damp hair overnight. Add decorative hair clips or small accessories to give it a polished finish. This effortless style works well for casual outings or school days.
21. Side Part with Bobby Pin
A deep side part with colourful bobby pins adds a stylish twist to short hair. Simply part the hair to one side and secure it with fun-shaped pins or clips. This simple yet effective hairstyle is perfect for keeping hair out of the face while adding personality.
22. Crown Twists
Divide the front section of the hair into two and twist each side towards the back, securing with a small elastic. This half-up style mimics a crown, making it an easy yet elegant choice for school or special occasions. Add small flowers or beads for extra charm.
23. Low Puff with Headband
For kids with curly or textured hair, a low puff secured at the back with a stylish headband is a fantastic choice. This hairstyle keeps hair controlled while enhancing natural curls. It’s perfect for an everyday look and can be accessorised with colourful headbands.
24. Short Hair Rolled Updo
A rolled updo is a classy choice for short hair. Roll small sections inward and secure with pins for a neat look. For more polished looks perfect for events, don’t miss our wedding hairstyles for short hair collection.
25. Braided Ponytail
Even with short hair, a braided ponytail can be achieved by braiding the top section and securing it into a low ponytail. This is a great way to add texture and keep hair manageable throughout the day.
26. Short Hair Twisted Mohawk
For a bold and fun look, twist small sections of hair from the sides towards the centre, creating a faux hawk effect. Secure with elastics or clips. This edgy yet adorable style is great for kids who love unique hairstyles.
27. Zigzag Parting with Clips
A zigzag parting adds a playful touch to short hair. Use a comb to create a fun zigzag shape and secure the sides with cute clips or elastics. This simple style takes seconds to do but makes a big statement.
28. Tiny Braided Pigtails
For kids with slightly longer short hair, tiny braided pigtails add a fun and stylish touch. Braid two small sections on either side and secure with colourful elastics. This look is playful, practical, and perfect for school mornings.
29. Short Hair Finger Coils
Finger coils highlight the beauty of naturally curly or coily short hair. Use a light cream and twist small sections with your fingers. This style works well with our tips on kids hairstyles for curly hair to keep curls defined and healthy.
30. Side-Swept Curls
For a soft and elegant look, let natural curls fall to one side. Use a cute barrette or pin to keep one side tucked behind the ear. This timeless style works for casual and formal occasions alike.
31. Short Hair Twisted Bangs
Twisting the front section of hair and pinning it back with a decorative clip adds a chic touch to short hairstyles. This style is great for keeping bangs out of the face while adding an element of style.
32. Fishtail Half-Up Style
For a creative take on short hair, try a mini fishtail braid on the top section while leaving the rest of the hair loose. This modern and stylish look is perfect for special occasions or everyday wear.
33. Short Hair Knotted Headband Style
A knotted headband instantly upgrades short hair into a trendy style. Whether you use fabric or hair to create the knot, this is a quick way to elevate the look. Explore more short hairstyles for school girls for everyday inspiration.
34. Twisted Mini Buns
Twisted mini buns are a stylish and practical way to manage short hair. Simply divide the hair into small sections, twist each one, and secure it into a bun with elastics or bobby pins. This playful hairstyle works well for both casual and special occasions, keeping hair secure while adding a trendy look.
35. Clip-In Extensions for Short Hair
For kids who love experimenting with their look, clip-in extensions add a fun touch to short hair. Choose bright colours like pink, blue, or purple to make it playful, or opt for natural tones for added volume. These extensions are easy to attach and remove, making them perfect for temporary style changes.
36. Simple Pixie with a Side Clip
The pixie cut is low-maintenance yet super cute. Adding a clip on one side makes it instantly stylish. For more inspiration on minimal yet striking styles, visit our short hairstyles for girls gallery.
37. Sleek Low Bun
A sleek low bun is perfect for neat and polished styling. Gather the short hair at the nape of the neck and twist it into a bun, securing it with a hair tie and bobby pins. Use a little styling gel to smooth down flyaways, giving it an elegant and sophisticated touch.
38. Short Hair Bow Updo
A bow updo is a creative way to style short hair. Gather a small section from the top, twist it into loops to form a bow, and secure it with pins. This hairstyle is unique and fun, making it great for birthdays, school events, or even just a playful day out.
39. Mini Curly Fro
Natural curls deserve to be shown off. With a little leave-in conditioner or curl cream, a mini fro becomes a standout style. Looking for more texture-focused inspiration? Check out our collection of kids hairstyles for afro hair.
40. Feathered Bob with Side Part
A feathered bob is a soft and lightweight haircut that looks amazing on short hair. Adding a side part gives it extra volume and movement, making it a great choice for active kids. This chic yet low-maintenance style is ideal for school, playdates, or family outings.
Conclusion
Short hair doesn’t mean limited styling options! With these 40 playful and practical hairstyles, your child can enjoy a variety of fun looks that are easy to manage. Whether it’s for school, playdates, or special events, these styles ensure that short hair remains stylish and functional. Try different looks and find the perfect hairstyle that suits your little one’s personality and lifestyle!
