5 Quick Mom Hairstyles for Toddlers Around

Sound familiar? You’re not alone. In a 2024 parenting poll, over 70% of moms said managing their toddler’s hair added stress to their daily routine. Whether you’re prepping for preschool drop-off, heading to the park, or just trying to make it through a grocery trip, a simple and cute hairstyle can make a big difference. Not just in how your toddler looks—but in how the day starts.

That’s why I’ve rounded up five quick, adorable, mom-approved hairstyles that take minutes, not muscle. No heat tools, no fuss. Just some everyday tools, a few elastic bands, and maybe a cute bow or two. Let’s turn those morning meltdowns into mini-makeovers—without the drama!

1. The Two-Minute Top Knot

If your toddler has medium to long hair, the two-minute top knot is a game-changer. It’s fast, functional, and seriously cute. This style is perfect for keeping hair out of your little one’s eyes and off their neck, especially on those sweaty playground days.

Start by brushing the hair upward into a high ponytail. Secure it with an elastic, then twist the ponytail into a soft bun. Use another hair tie or a few bobby pins to keep it in place. Finish it off with a colorful bow, and boom—you’re out the door in no time.

What makes this style great for toddlers is its durability. It holds up well during play, naps, or snack time. It’s especially useful for preschool mornings when time is tight and patience is even tighter. And it works with different textures, from straight to wavy toddler hair.

The top knot also doubles as a base for more elaborate styles. Add a braided strand or wrap a ribbon around it for a fancier occasion. Whether you’re heading to daycare or dancing in the living room, this hairstyle keeps things simple and stylish—no stress required.

2. The Side Pony with a Twist

Ready for something just as easy but with a little extra flair? The side pony with a twist gives you that touch of style without overcomplicating things. It’s a step up from the regular ponytail and takes just one more minute—literally.

To start, part the hair to one side and gather it into a low ponytail just behind the ear. Before securing it, divide the hair above the tie, create a small hole, and gently flip the ponytail through it—this creates that pretty “twist” effect. Pull the pony snug and finish with a cute scrunchie.

What’s lovely about this style is its flexibility. It looks polished enough for a birthday party but laid-back enough for an afternoon at home. It’s especially flattering on toddlers with fine or straight hair, giving the illusion of volume and effort—even when you only spent a minute on it.

And yes, this look is super budget-friendly. No fancy clips or heat tools required. Just an elastic, maybe a fabric scrunchie, and a willing toddler (okay, that part can be tricky). Add a tiny barrette or flower clip to dress it up if needed, and you’ve got yourself a go-to style for all occasions.

3. The Classic Double Buns

Few things scream “toddler cuteness overload” like the classic double buns. This hairstyle is adorable, playful, and—bonus—practically made for energetic little ones. It keeps hair secured while allowing your toddler to bounce around freely.

Divide the hair down the middle from forehead to nape. Create two ponytails high on each side, then twist each one into a bun and secure. For toddlers with thick or curly hair, use soft elastics to prevent breakage. Add some colorful clips or mini bows, and your toddler is ready to shine!

Double buns are a hit for playdates, trips to grandma’s, or just chilling around the house. They keep hair off the face and neck, making them ideal for warm days. Plus, they hold up well—even during naps or enthusiastic snack sessions.

If your toddler is feeling fancy, you can braid each ponytail before coiling them into buns. This adds a little texture and grip, perfect for those with slippery hair. The best part? You can match your own hairstyle to theirs—hello, mommy-and-me hair moments! Whether you’re coordinating or just improvising, this look is as fun as it is functional.

4. The Braided Crown

When you want something that looks a little more special, the braided crown is your go-to. It’s elegant, secure, and surprisingly doable—even if you’re not a braiding pro. This one works best for toddlers with shoulder-length to longer hair.

Start by parting the hair to one side. Create a French braid from one side of the head, curving around like a headband, and continue to the opposite side. Tuck in the end and pin it discreetly. If you’re not confident in French braiding, a simple three-strand braid will do just fine.

This style is perfect for special events—think weddings, family gatherings, or even preschool picture day. It stays in place and gives your toddler a princess-like vibe without needing sparkly tiaras (though you can absolutely add those too!).

For texture, braid the hair the night before and undo it in the morning for that soft wave look. This can give the crown more volume and a fuller appearance. With a few tiny flower pins or a satin headband, the braided crown can easily become a magical hairstyle your little one will request again and again.

5. The Messy Mini Bun

Sometimes, your toddler’s hair just won’t cooperate—and that’s when the messy mini bun saves the day. This laid-back look is perfect for busy mornings, post-nap hair, or second-day styles when a full detangling session just isn’t happening.

Simply brush the top half of the hair into a loose ponytail and wrap it into a bun. Let a few strands fall out naturally. The idea is not to make it perfect—it’s meant to be a little wild and free. Finish with a stretchy headband or a soft scrunchie to give it a polished yet effortless vibe.

This style is a favorite for budget-conscious moms because it requires zero extra products and barely any time. Plus, it works on nearly any hair length, especially when you’re in between trims or growing out bangs. If your toddler has curly hair, let those curls pop out around the bun for a playful touch.

Need a little extra hold? Use a spritz of toddler-safe leave-in conditioner to smooth flyaways. The messy mini bun may be low-maintenance, but it looks trendy and intentional—like your toddler’s hair is casually styled by a pro (aka you, multitasking superhero).

Conclusion

There you go, mama—five quick and adorable hairstyles for toddlers that won’t steal your time or your sanity. Whether you’re racing to preschool, packing for a playdate, or just trying to make it through a busy Tuesday, these styles are your shortcut to easier mornings.

Each one is fast, functional, and toddler-tested. From the polished braided crown to the messy mini bun, these looks bring a touch of creativity without overwhelming your routine. And the best part? You don’t need a drawer full of products or salon skills to pull them off—just a brush, some bands, and a bit of patience (okay, maybe a snack bribe too. Give one a try this week! You might be surprised how much smoother your mornings feel when hair is one less thing to worry about. And hey, if your toddler sits still long enough for a selfie—don’t forget to tag us. We’d love to see your little cutie rocking their new look!