It doesn't matter if we're talking about boys or girls - when it comes to elegant hairstyles for children, there is a fine line to manage. You want his or her hairstyle to look formal but feel more casual. The reason is that most kids do not want to be bothered with looking formal because there is a perception that doing so will take more time and effort than most kids want to think about.
Of course, much of this perception is gender-specific. For example, when you want to style a small girl's hair, she won't mind you brushing and re-arranging it - it's like she is having her own makeover! However, when you are styling or cutting a boy's crop, be aware that the longer they sit in the chair the more frustrated they will get. This is why, for boys in particular, it can be useful to take them to a professional stylist instead of trying to do it yourself.
General Haircut Tips for Children
With kids increasingly wanting to sport trendy hair styles, much like their older siblings or parents, it might be important to take them to a salon to give them a huge confidence boost.
As with any sort of hair, it is important to start by using a shampoo and conditioner that is suited to kids hair. Specifically, shampoos formulated for kids usually contain ingredients that enable their hair to grow thicker and stronger. These shampoos also tend to have fewer harmful ingredients in them, which is incredibly helpful as kids can be much more sensitive.
It is also important at a young age to have a very practical haircut. So for girls, the best haircut is a very simple long, straight and blunt cut, with perhaps a small fringe. For boys, it is simplest to cut it to as short as the boy will let you, especially because a short cropped style is almost always in fashion.
Hair Accessories for Little Girls
Obviously this section of the article focuses on girls because boys do not generally utilize hair accessories. A few things you could try out when playing makeover with the girls hair are braiding, bunching, curling and straightening.
One piece of good news for kid's hairstyles is that it is generally easier to find hair accessories for children than for adults. So whether it's bows 'n' braids or clips 'n' combs - you're bound to find something to suit your little girl.
This is really one of the only times in a young girl's life where she can put loads of accessories in her hair and look great, so go ahead and try some out. The more clips and grips you have on hand, the better. Just be careful to get the child's opinion on her hair before going out, as this will enable her to make her own decision as to whether or not she likes it. As such, it is usually a good idea to allow your little girl to participate in the decision-making process (i.e., let her help decide on the style, the accessories, etc.).
Short Hairstyles for Kids
Why go for a short hairstyle? Because these are obviously a lot easier to manage, wash and brush! Yes it's true - shorter hair certainly takes the pain out of the daily routine of brushing the knots out of longer hair.
For girls and boys, this is the most practical and easy to keep haircut. A short bob on a young girl always looks cute and very pretty, whilst still being able to be put up. But do not cut the hair any shorter than below the ears (nape of the neck) as this will look unnatural, and far too old for a young child.
Bottom Line
Is it worth having a professional hair cut for kids? Well, assuming it's something that can fit into your budget; I'd have to say that it is definitely worth it.
Once a child is old enough to sit still, it can be quite a treat to enjoy with an adult. Boys may love a trip to the barber with dad, and girls will enjoy going to the hairdresser with mom, whether to just watch or have their own hair cut.
