Beaded Hairstyles For Kids

A single large bead at the end of a braid is an easy style.

One of the great things about childhood is the ability to wear fun and funky hairstyles. Beads can add a lot of flair to an already interesting style or dress up a casual look. Although people have been weaving beads into braids for years, there are many other ways to wear beads as well. A little imagination, some colorful beads and experimentation can lead to new hairstyles that will be the talk of all those you know. Here are a few ideas to get you started.

Braided Beads

A traditional hairstyle with beads is usually created with braids. However, there are many, many different types of braids that can be worn, and beads can be woven into nearly any braid you can imagine. In addition to fishbone, French and standard braids, those braids can be worn in a variety of ways, including buns or a number of braids done in cornrows.

Standard braids are very easy to add beads to as you weave the strands together. French braids look gorgeous for everyday wear. Large beads can be pulled onto individual strands as they are worked into the braid. You may need two people to pull of this complicated weaving, however, since French braids typically take both hands to complete. Having a second pair of hands is helpful to place the beads in place while the first person completes the actual braiding. Just about any braid design you can imagine can have beads added to it.

Beaded Barrettes and Headbands

If weaving the beads into a braid is more than you'd like to bother with for a child's everyday look, then a simple beaded barrette or beaded headband can add a little glamor quickly and easily. There are many beaded hair accessories available at nearly any big-box retailer, but you can also design your own by purchasing supplies at your local craft store.

Updos with Beads

For formal occasions, family pictures, first communion or holidays, you may want a more formal look. A pretty French twist or up-'do with cascading curls can be made special by adding a few glimmering beads. Beads are available on bobby pins or little round hair baubles that sit on top of the up-'do. Beads can also be added to separate strands of hair or to small braids on the crown of the head and then the loose hair at the bottom (past the crown) pulled up for a bun. This creates a very elegant and detailed look but is probably best completed by a hair designer.

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