Black children have beautiful and diverse hair textures that require specific care and styling techniques. While intricate braids and intricate updos can look stunning, busy parents need quick and easy natural hairstyles that their children can wear to school, playdates, and special occasions. This guide offers a variety of simple and stylish options for every occasion, all while prioritizing hair health and comfort.
Protective Styles for School and Play
1. Bantu Knots: This timeless style is perfect for protecting and styling short to medium-length natural hair. Bantu knots can be created by twisting small sections of hair and wrapping them around themselves to form a knot. They can be worn down, in a bun, or even adorned with beads or ribbons for added flair.
2. Flat Twists: Flat twists are a simple and elegant way to style short to long hair. To create flat twists, simply divide hair into sections and twist two strands of hair together, keeping them flat against the scalp. Flat twists can be styled in various ways, such as pigtails, a crown braid, or a simple ponytail.
3. Cornrows: Cornrows are a classic protective style that can be worn for weeks with proper care. They offer excellent protection from the elements and can be styled in countless ways, from simple straight lines to intricate patterns.
4. Braided Ponytail: This versatile style is perfect for active children. Simply braid the hair into a high or low ponytail and secure it with a colorful hair tie. For added flair, add ribbons, beads, or hair cuffs.
5. Afro Puffs: This classic style is simple and easy to create, even for beginners. To create afro puffs, divide the hair into two sections and gather each section into a high ponytail. Secure the ponytails with hair ties and fluff out the hair for maximum volume.
Stylish Options for Special Occasions
1. Braided Crown: This elegant style is perfect for special occasions like weddings or graduations. To create a braided crown, braid the hair into cornrows or flat twists and then arrange them around the head to form a crown. Secure the braids with bobby pins and add beads or flowers for extra decoration.
2. Braided Updo: This sophisticated style is ideal for formal events. To create a braided updo, braid the hair into cornrows or flat twists and then gather them into a high bun. Secure the bun with bobby pins and add hairspray to keep it in place.
3. Bantu Knot Updo: This playful style is perfect for young girls. To create a Bantu knot updo, simply create Bantu knots all over the head and then gather them into a high bun. Secure the bun with bobby pins and add colorful ribbons or beads for a fun touch.
4. Twisted Headband: This chic style is perfect for adding a touch of elegance to any outfit. To create a twisted headband, twist two sections of hair at the front of the head and bring them back to meet in the center. Secure them with bobby pins and add hairspray to keep them in place.
5. Braided Heart: This adorable style is sure to win hearts on Valentine’s Day or any other special occasion. To create a braided heart, braid two sections of hair into cornrows or flat twists and then shape them into a heart on the side of the head. Secure the braids with bobby pins and add hair accessories for a finishing touch.
Tips for Success
- Start with healthy hair: Regular deep conditioning and using natural hair care products will help keep your child’s hair healthy and manageable.
- Detangle before styling: This will help prevent breakage and make styling easier.
- Use the right tools: Invest in good quality combs, brushes, and hair ties that are designed for natural hair.
- Be patient: Learning new hairstyles takes time and practice. Be patient with yourself and your child as you learn together.
- Most importantly, have fun! Experiment with different hairstyles and let your child’s personality shine through.
By following these tips and using the inspiration provided in this guide, you can create quick and easy natural hairstyles for your black child that are both stylish and protective. So get creative, have fun, and embrace the beauty of your child’s natural hair!
