40 Low Maintenance Kids Hairstyles for School Mornings
Mornings can be a hectic time for parents, especially when getting kids ready for school. Finding a low-maintenance hairstyle that looks neat, stays in place all day, and requires minimal effort is essential.
This article features 40 easy and quick hairstyles perfect for school mornings. Whether your child has short, medium, or long hair, these styles will help you save time while ensuring they look adorable and presentable. From simple braids to no-fuss ponytails, these hairstyles make school mornings stress-free.
1. Classic High Ponytail
A high ponytail is one of the easiest and most practical kids hairstyles for school. Simply gather all the hair at the crown and secure it with an elastic. It keeps hair out of the face, looks neat, and takes just a few seconds perfect for busy school mornings.
2. Simple Low Ponytail
A low ponytail is a quick and fuss-free hairstyle that works well for all hair types. Just gather the hair at the nape of the neck and secure it with a hairband. This style prevents tangles throughout the day and is comfortable for kids who prefer a minimal look.
3. Side Ponytail with Ribbon
Adding a small twist to a simple ponytail, a side ponytail with a ribbon makes the hairstyle look more polished. Gather the hair to one side and secure it with a hair tie. A ribbon adds a cute touch and keeps the style looking fresh for the whole school day.
4. Half-Up, Half-Down Ponytail
This easy hairstyle keeps hair away from the face while leaving the rest flowing naturally. Take the top section of the hair, pull it back, and secure it with a hairband. It’s great for kids who don’t like full ponytails but still need a tidy look for school.
5. Two Low Pigtails
Low pigtails are a timeless school hairstyle that takes just minutes to create. Part the hair down the middle and secure each section into a low ponytail. This style works well for short, medium, and long hair and stays in place without requiring extra clips or pins.
6. Messy Bun
A messy bun is perfect for kids who don’t like their hair getting in the way. Gather the hair into a ponytail, twist it around itself, and secure with a tie. It’s a classic bun hairstyle that looks cute and feels effortless for quick school routines.
7. Twisted Ponytail
Upgrade a regular ponytail with an easy twist. Simply tie the hair into a low ponytail, split it just above the hair tie, and pull the ponytail through. This creates a neat, elegant look that requires no extra styling while keeping hair tidy throughout the school day.
8. Basic Braided Ponytail
This easy combo of a braid and ponytail keeps hair secure all day. Just braid the ponytail after tying it and secure the end. If your child has short hair, you can adjust the length or try a side braid variation instead.
9. Side Braid
A side braid is an easy, stylish alternative to a traditional ponytail. Sweep all the hair to one side and braid it down. It takes less than a minute to do and stays intact, making it a great choice for kids with long hair who need a quick morning hairstyle.
10. French Braid
The French braid is a school-time favorite. Start at the top and add strands as you go for a neat finish. For more detailed guides, explore our collection of kids hairstyles for school with braid ideas that work across all hair lengths.
11. Double French Braids
Perfect for long days, double French braids stay secure through all school activities. This style also complements festive looks like kids hairstyles for annual function when paired with accessories or ribbons.
12. Dutch Braid
A Dutch braid is similar to a French braid but with the strands woven under instead of over, creating a raised effect. This style is perfect for kids with thick hair as it keeps everything neatly in place. Once secured, it stays intact all day without requiring additional touch-ups.
13. Side Twists into a Ponytail
For a simple yet cute look, twist two sections of hair from the front and secure them into a low ponytail. This keeps hair out of the face while adding an elegant touch. It’s a quick and easy school hairstyle that requires minimal effort but looks well put together.
14. Bubble Ponytail
A bubble ponytail is a fun variation of the classic ponytail. Tie the hair into a high or low ponytail, then add extra hair bands along the length, puffing out each section for a “bubble” effect. It’s a stylish and playful look that works well for all hair types.
15. Crown Braid
A crown braid gives an elegant touch while keeping hair completely off the face. Braid two sections from each side and secure them at the back with pins or a hairband. This easy updo works well for school as it prevents flyaways and requires no additional styling throughout the day.
16. Simple Top Knot
A top knot is an effortless yet stylish way to keep hair neat during school hours. Gather all the hair into a high ponytail, twist it around itself, and secure it with a hair tie. It’s an excellent option for hot days or when you want a polished look.
17. Side-Swept Bangs with Low Ponytail
This style is ideal for kids with bangs or layers. Sweep the bangs to the side and tie the rest low. Want more age-appropriate ideas? Check out our short hairstyles for school girls that balance fun and functionality.
18. Twisted Rope Braid
A rope braid is one of the easiest braiding styles. Divide the hair into two sections, twist each one in the same direction, then twist them around each other and secure with an elastic. This style looks intricate but takes only a minute, making it a great low-maintenance choice.
19. Half-Up Top Knot
For kids who love wearing their hair down but need it out of their face, a half-up top knot is the perfect solution. Gather the top section of hair into a small bun at the crown while leaving the rest loose. It’s a quick, trendy style that requires minimal effort.
20. Low Bun with Headband
A low bun is a simple yet elegant school hairstyle. Gather the hair at the nape of the neck and secure it into a bun. Adding a headband helps keep flyaways in check while adding a stylish touch. This style works well for busy mornings when you need something quick.
21. Double Twisted Ponytails
Double twisted ponytails add a stylish twist to the regular pigtails. Divide the hair into two sections, twist each section tightly, and secure them with hair ties at the nape. This hairstyle is great for keeping hair manageable and takes less than two minutes to complete—perfect for school mornings.
22. Fishtail Braid
A fishtail braid may look intricate, but it’s easy and long-lasting. For more playful twists like this, see our full collection of hairstyles for active kids that stay neat during school and play.
23. Sleek Low Ponytail with Side Part
For a clean and polished school look, a sleek low ponytail with a side part is an excellent choice. Simply create a deep side part, smooth the hair down, and secure it into a low ponytail. This keeps hair tidy without the need for frequent brushing throughout the day.
24. Braided Crown with Loose Hair
This half-up style combines braids and loose hair for an effortless yet elegant look. Take two small sections from each side, braid them, and pin them at the back to form a crown. This keeps hair away from the face while allowing the rest to flow naturally.
25. Zigzag Part Ponytail
Adding a zigzag part to a ponytail makes a simple style look more fun. Use a comb to create a zigzag parting before securing the hair into a ponytail. This works for all hair types and adds a unique touch without requiring extra styling effort on busy school mornings.
26. Low Side Bun
A low side bun is a soft and feminine hairstyle that takes just minutes to create. Gather the hair to one side, twist it into a bun, and secure with a hair tie. This style works well for kids with medium to long hair and stays neat throughout the school day.
27. Double Buns (Space Buns)
Space buns are a playful and trendy hairstyle that’s quick to do. Divide the hair into two sections, twist each section into a bun, and secure them at the top of the head. This fun hairstyle is practical for school as it keeps hair completely out of the face.
28. Braided Headband
The braided headband is a go-to style when you want something stylish yet school-friendly. Learn how to create this and more from our how-to-do braided hairstyles guide designed for beginners and parents.
29. Simple Side Twist
A side twist is an easy way to add some detail to loose hair. Take a small section from one side, twist it back, and secure it with a clip or bobby pin. This keeps hair out of the eyes while maintaining a soft and natural school-friendly look.
30. French Twist Ponytail
The French twist ponytail brings together elegance and ease. Secure a low ponytail, twist it upward, and clip it. Want more medium-hair ideas? Explore our medium-length hairstyles for school kids for effortless school styles.
31. Wavy Half-Up Ponytail
For kids with naturally wavy hair, a half-up ponytail is a great option. Gather the top half of the hair and secure it into a ponytail while leaving the rest loose. This style allows natural waves to shine while keeping the front section tidy for school.
32. Small Section Braids with Open Hair
Adding small braids to lose hair gives a fun and effortless look. Take a couple of small sections from the front, braid them, and leave the rest of the hair down. This simple style adds charm without taking up too much time in the morning.
33. Mini Top Bun with Braids
For a playful look, try a mini bun with small braids. Take the top section of the hair, create two tiny braids, and twist them into a bun. This cute and easy style keeps the front hair secured while adding a fun element for school.
34. Tucked-In Low Bun
A tucked-in low bun is a mess-free style that stays in place all day. Make a low ponytail, roll it inward toward the head, and secure it with pins. This polished look is perfect for kids who want a more elegant hairstyle that requires minimal upkeep.
35. Waterfall Braid
A waterfall braid looks intricate but is quite simple once mastered. Instead of braiding all the hair, drop one section down every time you cross over. This half-up hairstyle keeps hair looking stylish while being functional for school. It works best on medium to long hair.
36. Simple Slicked-Back Ponytail
This sleek ponytail keeps thick or curly hair in place. Use water or gel to tame frizz before tying it. You’ll find more options in our full guide to kids hairstyles for curly hair with school-friendly ideas.
37. Twisted Side Braid
A twisted side braid adds a unique touch to a basic braid. Take a small section from the front, twist it loosely, and incorporate it into a side braid. This style stays put all day while keeping hair out of the face, making it perfect for school.
38. Pin-Backed Front Sections
For kids who prefer wearing their hair down, simply pinning back the front sections is an easy solution. Take small sections from the front, twist them back, and secure them with bobby pins. This prevents hair from falling into the face while keeping the overall look natural.
39. Faux Hawk Ponytail
A faux hawk ponytail is a fun and edgy school hairstyle. Divide the top section of hair into three small ponytails, then secure them together into a single ponytail at the back. This gives a voluminous and stylish look while keeping hair neatly tied back.
40. Loose Waves with a Side Clip
For a simple and charming look, loose waves with a side clip are perfect. If the child’s hair has natural waves, just secure one side with a cute clip or barrette. This style takes no time in the morning while keeping hair tidy and manageable for school.
Conclusion
With these 40 low-maintenance kids hairstyles, your mornings can be quicker and calmer. Explore even more in our complete kids hair section for everyday styles, festive looks, and seasonal inspiration—all designed to keep your child cute and confident from morning to school bell.
Whether you prefer a classic ponytail, simple braids, or fun twists, these hairstyles are perfect for busy mornings. Try out different styles and find the one that works best for your child, making mornings smoother and school days even better!
