How To Do Double Dutch Braids For Beginners For Kids

Braiding a child’s hair can be a wonderfully engaging and rewarding experience, especially when you’re crafting a style as delightful as double Dutch braids. These braids are not only stylish but also incredibly practical, keeping hair neatly in place during all sorts of activities, from energetic playdates to focused classroom sessions. If you’re new to the art of braiding, there’s no need to worry. This guide is designed to walk you through the process step-by-step, ensuring that your little one looks adorable and feels comfortable with minimal fuss.

Double Dutch braids are essentially two inverted French braids, starting from the top of the head and working their way down to the nape of the neck. Unlike traditional French braids, where sections of hair are crossed over, in Dutch braids, sections are crossed under. This technique creates a braid that stands out more prominently from the scalp, offering a unique and eye-catching look. The visual texture of double Dutch braids makes them particularly appealing, as they add an element of depth and intricacy to any hairstyle.

Moreover, double Dutch braids are versatile enough to be adapted for different occasions, from casual outings to more formal events. Their standout appearance can be further enhanced with accessories or by incorporating additional braiding techniques, making them a favorite among kids and parents alike. Whether you’re aiming for a polished look or a more carefree style, double Dutch braids offer flexibility and charm in abundance.

These braids are perfect for active children. They keep hair secure and out of the face, making them ideal for school, sports, or any outdoor activities. Plus, they work well with various hair textures and lengths, making them a versatile choice for any kid. The practicality of double Dutch braids cannot be overstated; they are designed to withstand the rigors of a child’s busy day, ensuring that the hairstyle remains intact and tidy.

In addition to their practicality, double Dutch braids also offer a platform for creativity. Parents and children can have fun experimenting with different braid patterns, adding colorful ribbons, or even incorporating small hair accessories to personalize the look. This adaptability not only makes them a go-to choice for everyday wear but also a great option for special occasions where a little extra flair is desired.

Before you start braiding, make sure you have the following tools on hand:

• A wide-tooth comb
• A fine-tooth comb
• Hair elastics
• Hair clips
• A spray bottle with water (optional)
• Hair gel or smoothing serum (optional)

These tools are essential for creating a neat and secure braid. The wide-tooth comb helps in detangling the hair without causing breakage, while the fine-tooth comb is perfect for creating precise parts. Hair elastics are crucial for securing the ends of the braids, and hair clips help in sectioning off the hair, making the braiding process more manageable. The spray bottle and hair products are optional but can be beneficial for taming flyaways and providing a sleek finish.

Start by washing and conditioning the hair to ensure it’s clean and manageable. Towel dry it gently, and use a wide-tooth comb to remove any tangles. If the hair is prone to frizz, consider applying a smoothing serum or a small amount of hair gel to help keep the braids neat. Preparing the hair properly is a crucial step in achieving a tidy braid that lasts.

Ensuring the hair is slightly damp can make braiding easier, as it helps in reducing static and frizz. If the hair dries out during the braiding process, a quick spritz with the spray bottle can help maintain its pliability. Taking the time to prepare the hair correctly not only simplifies the braiding process but also enhances the overall appearance and longevity of the braids.

Use a fine-tooth comb to create a center part, dividing the hair into two equal sections. Clip one section out of the way to keep it separate while you work on the other side. A precise part is vital for creating symmetrical braids, which contribute to a polished final look.

Ensuring that the sections are equal in size will not only make the braids look more balanced but will also prevent discomfort from uneven tension on the scalp. Taking a little extra time to get the part just right can make a significant difference in the final outcome, so don’t rush this foundational step.

Take a small section of hair from the front of one side, close to the part. Divide this section into three equal strands. To begin the braid, cross the right strand under the middle strand, then the left strand under the middle strand. This under-crossing is what gives the Dutch braid its distinctive raised appearance.

As you establish the initial braid pattern, focus on keeping the tension even. Consistent tension ensures that the braid will be tight enough to hold but not so tight that it’s uncomfortable for the child. A little practice will help you find the right balance, making the process smoother each time you braid.

As you continue braiding, add a small section of hair from the head to each strand before crossing it under the middle one. This is the key to creating the Dutch braid. Continue this process, adding hair and crossing strands under, until you reach the nape of the neck. Consistency in the size of the sections added ensures a uniform braid from top to bottom.

This step is where the braid starts to take shape, and it’s important to maintain a steady rhythm. Adding hair evenly and maintaining the under-crossing pattern will create a neat and defined braid. If you find that sections are uneven, take a moment to adjust them to maintain the braid’s integrity.

Step 4: Secure the Braid

Once you’ve added all the hair and reached the bottom of the section, continue with a standard three-strand braid until you run out of hair. Secure the end with a hair elastic. Ensuring the braid is tightly secured prevents it from unraveling during wear, which is especially important for active children.

If desired, you can wrap a small section of hair around the elastic to conceal it, securing the end with a hairpin for a polished finish. This small detail can elevate the overall look of the braid, giving it a professional touch that is both sleek and stylish.

Step 5: Repeat on the Other Side

Unclip the other section of hair and repeat the same process, creating a second Dutch braid. Remember to cross the strands under, just like you did with the first braid. Symmetry is key in double Dutch braids, so take care to match the tension and strand size to the first braid.

Repetition on the second side may be quicker as you gain confidence from completing the first braid. However, ensure you maintain the same level of precision and care for a consistent look. A little patience and attention to detail will yield a harmonious and balanced hairstyle.

Step 6: Finishing Touches

Once both braids are complete, you can gently pull on the edges of the braids to make them look fuller and more voluminous. Spray a little water or add a touch of gel to tame any flyaways and keep the braids neat throughout the day. This final step is crucial for ensuring the braids look their best and hold up under the demands of a child’s active lifestyle.

Adding a finishing spray or serum can add a touch of shine and help keep the braids looking fresh. Don’t forget to encourage your child to show off their new hairstyle with confidence, as the final result is sure to be both beautiful and practical.

Tips for Perfecting Your Braiding Technique

Practice Makes Perfect

If you’re new to braiding, don’t be discouraged if your first few attempts aren’t perfect. The more you practice, the more confident you’ll become. Try practicing on a doll or mannequin head if you can. This way, you can hone your skills without the pressure of working on a moving target.

Consistency is achieved through repetition, so take the time to familiarize yourself with the braiding motions. As you develop muscle memory, the process will become more intuitive, allowing you to focus on creativity and style rather than the mechanics of braiding.

Experiment with Styles

Once you’re comfortable with the basic technique, feel free to experiment with variations. You can incorporate different braid styles like watermelon braids or box braids for kids, or even add colorful hair bands for a fun twist. Exploring different styles keeps the braiding process exciting and allows you to discover new favorites.

Incorporating accessories like ribbons or beads can also add personality and flair to the braids. Encourage your child to participate in the styling process by choosing their favorite colors or themes, making the experience enjoyable and personalized.

Finding Inspiration

Looking for more ideas? Search for “kids braids near me” or check out online tutorials and social media for inspiration. There are countless styles and techniques to explore that can suit your child’s personality and preferences. Online platforms are treasure troves of creative ideas, offering step-by-step guides and visual aids to inspire your next hair adventure.

Engaging with braiding communities online can also provide support and encouragement, as well as tips and tricks from experienced braiders. Sharing your progress and learning from others can be a rewarding part of the braiding journey.

Maintenance and Care

Keeping Braids Neat

To keep the braids looking fresh, encourage your child to wear a kids’ hat with braids or a silk scarf at night. This helps reduce friction and prevents frizz. Nighttime care is essential for maintaining the style and ensuring the braids last as long as possible.

Silk or satin materials are particularly effective at reducing frizz and protecting the hair’s natural oils, making them an ideal choice for nighttime wear. Encouraging this habit can significantly extend the lifespan of the braids and ensure they remain neat and tidy.

Cleaning and Refreshing

Braids can last several days, but it’s important to keep the scalp clean. Use a gentle, no-rinse cleanser or a damp cloth to clean the scalp if needed. Refresh the braids by lightly spritzing with water and smoothing any loose strands with gel. Regular maintenance keeps the braids looking fresh and prevents itchiness or irritation.

In addition to cleaning, regularly checking the braids for any loose strands or tangles can help in maintaining their appearance. A quick touch-up can make a big difference in keeping the braids looking as good as new.

Conclusion

Double Dutch braids are a fantastic way to style your child’s hair, combining practicality with a touch of flair. With a bit of practice and patience, you’ll master the art of braiding, providing your child with a hairstyle that’s both secure and stylish. Whether for school days or special occasions, these braids are sure to become a favorite go-to look.

Remember, the key to great braiding is practice and creativity. So grab your combs and elastics, and start your journey into the wonderful world of kids’ braided hairstyles today! Embrace the learning process, and soon you’ll be creating stunning braids with ease and confidence.