How To French Braid Children’s Hair: The Easy, Step-by-step Guide

Mastering the art of French braiding is a valuable skill for any parent or caregiver. Whether you’re preparing your little one for a special occasion or simply want to add a touch of flair to their everyday look, a French braid is a versatile and elegant hairstyle that can elevate any ensemble. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll take you through the steps of how to French braid children‘s hair, providing detailed instructions and helpful tips along the way.

Materials You’ll Need

Before you begin, gather the following materials:

• A brush or comb for detangling
• Hair elastics or ribbons (optional)
• Patience and a positive attitude

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Hair

Start by brushing or combing the hair thoroughly to remove any tangles or knots. If desired, slightly dampen the hair to make it more manageable.

2. Divide the Hair into Three Sections

At the crown of the head, divide the hair into three equal sections: left, center, and right. Hold the center section in your right hand and the right section in your left hand.

3. Cross the Right Section Over the Center

Take the right section and cross it over the center section, bringing it to the center. Hold the new center section in your left hand.

4. Cross the Left Section Over the New Center

Repeat step 3 on the other side, taking the left section and crossing it over the new center section.

5. Gather a Small Section from the Left Side

Take a small section of hair from the left side, outside the braid. Add it to the left section of the braid.

6. Cross the Left Section (with Added Hair) Over the New Center

Cross the left section (now with added hair) over the new center section.

7. Repeat Steps 5 and 6 on the Right Side

Gather a small section of hair from the right side and add it to the right section of the braid. Cross the right section over the new center section.

8. Continue Braiding

Continue alternating steps 5 and 6, adding small sections of hair from each side and crossing them over the center section. As you braid, keep the tension even to create a neat and secure braid.

9. Secure the End

Once you reach the end of the hair, braid the remaining sections together and secure them with a hair elastic or ribbon.

Tips for Success

• Practice makes perfect! Don’t get discouraged if your first few attempts aren’t flawless.
• Use a mirror to help you see what you’re doing.
• Keep the sections of hair small and even for a more defined braid.
• If your hair is slippery, use a bit of hairspray or mousse to add grip.
• Don’t pull too tightly on the hair, as this can cause discomfort or breakage.

Variations

Once you’ve mastered the basic French braid, you can experiment with different variations to create unique and stylish looks.

• Dutch Braid: Similar to a French braid, but the sections are crossed under instead of over.
• Fishtail Braid: Involves weaving small sections of hair from one side to the other, creating a delicate and intricate pattern.
• Pull-Through Braid: A simplified variation where the hair is pulled through a loop instead of crossed over.
• Half-Up French Braid: Only braid the top half of the hair, leaving the bottom half loose.
• Crown Braid: Braid around the circumference of the head, creating a beautiful and eye-catching halo.

Key Points: Embracing the Art of French Braiding

Mastering how to French braid children’s hair is a rewarding skill that can add a touch of magic to any occasion. With patience, practice, and creativity, you can create stunning and versatile hairstyles that will make your little one shine. Remember, the journey of French braiding is as much about the bond you build with your child as it is about the final result.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How can I prevent my French braid from getting loose?

• Use a bit of hairspray or mousse to add grip to the hair.
• Braid the hair tightly, but not too tightly to avoid discomfort.
• Secure the end of the braid with a strong hair elastic or ribbon.

2. Is it possible to French braid my child’s hair if it’s short?

• Yes, it is possible to French braid short hair. However, it may be more challenging to keep the braid secure.
• Use smaller sections of hair and braid tightly to minimize the risk of the braid coming undone.

3. How can I make my French braid look more voluminous?

• Braid the hair loosely to create a more voluminous look.
• Gently pull on the edges of the braid to widen it.
• Add a bit of hairspray to hold the volume in place.

4. Can I French braid my child’s hair when it’s wet?

• Yes, you can French braid wet hair. However, it may be more difficult to keep the braid secure.
• Use a hair dryer to dry the hair slightly before braiding to make it easier to handle.

5. How often should I French braid my child’s hair?

• French braiding can be done as often as desired. However, it’s important to give the hair a break from tight hairstyles to prevent breakage.
• Avoid braiding the hair too tightly or for extended periods to minimize any discomfort or damage.