If I’m being honest, mornings with my toddler already feel like a whirlwind. Between breakfast battles, last-minute diaper changes, and trying to get out the door without losing my keys—or my mind—doing hair? That’s usually the last thing I think about.
Now, I only have a 2-year-old boy, so we’re not exactly doing braids or bows yet. But I’ve picked up so many smart hair tips from moms who’ve been in the game longer—especially those with girls who want to head to school looking polished and ready for the day.
This guide is filled with advice you wish you had known sooner. The styles here are perfect for straight, curly, thick, or fine hair. Whether you’re getting a kindergartener’s hair ready for picture day or managing a tween’s layered cut, there’s something here that’ll work—and most of them take five minutes or less. Some only need a comb and a couple of elastic bands!
Let’s jump into those easy back to school hairstyles.
Key Takeaways
- Quick styles save time and sanity – 5-minute looks can seriously ease your morning rush.
- Prep makes a big difference – A little organization (and damp hair!) can go a long way.
- You don’t need fancy tools – A comb, a spray bottle, and a few elastics are often all it takes.
- Second-day hair is not the enemy – Some styles look even cuter on “non-wash” days.
- There’s no one ‘right’ way to do hair – Start simple, have fun, and let your child’s personality shine.
Why Quick Hairstyles Matter for Busy School Mornings
As a mom, I’ve learned that even the smallest time-savers can make a huge difference in the morning. I may not have a little girl myself, but after hearing from seasoned moms, I totally get why having a few go-to quick hairstyles is a lifesaver—especially when the morning chaos is in full swing.
Here’s why quick hairstyles really matter:
- They save precious minutes – When every second counts, a 3-minute hairstyle means more time for breakfast, packing bags, or calming a meltdown.
- Less morning stress – A simple routine = fewer power struggles and less “mom guilt” when you’re running late.
- They build confidence – A neat, cute hairstyle helps kids feel good walking into school—and moms feel like they’ve got it together (even if it’s barely).
- Perfect for kids who can’t sit still – Quick styles mean less fussing, fewer tangles, and no tears (from them or us).
- Encourages independence – Some easy looks can be done by older kids themselves, which is a big win for everyone.
- Works even on second-day hair – No wash day? No problem. The right style can hide a lot and still look adorable.
Tips Before You Start Styling
Before diving into any hairstyle, I’ve learned from other moms that a few small prep steps can make a huge difference. These tips have been shared with me over playdates, chats at preschool pickup, and yes—even in mom Facebook groups.
Here are the top tips seasoned moms swear by:
- Start with slightly damp hair – It’s easier to manage, especially if you’re dealing with flyaways or bedhead.
- Keep a small styling basket handy – Stock it with child-friendly hair ties, a brush, spray bottle, and detangler—no digging through drawers when you’re in a rush.
- Use gentle, tear-free detangling spray – It makes brushing so much easier and avoids tugging (which toddlers definitely don’t love).
- Practice the styles on the weekend – Trying something new on a busy Monday morning? Not the best idea. A Sunday trial run is much more relaxed.
- Distraction is key – Give your child a toy, a book, or even let them watch a short video so they’ll sit still long enough to finish.
- Keep realistic expectations – Not every strand needs to be perfect. Sometimes “neat enough” is more than enough—and your child will still look adorable.
15 Easy Back To School Hairstyles That Save You Time
I may only be styling my toddler’s hair for now, but I’ve been paying close attention to the go-to looks moms love for their girls—especially on those hectic school mornings.
These 15 styles are quick, cute, and perfect for kids who don’t like to sit still too long. If you’re new to doing hair or just want inspiration, these are definitely worth trying!
1. Classic Ponytail with a Twist
This one’s a classic for a reason—quick, easy, and reliable. Add a little twist (literally) by wrapping a strand of hair around the elastic to hide it.
Tip: Use a soft-bristle brush to smooth bumps and a little water or detangler to tame flyaways.
2. Double Dutch Braids
Dutch braids look intricate but are surprisingly easy once you get the hang of it. They stay in place all day, even during recess.
Tip: Start with damp hair for better grip. Practice a few times on the weekend to build your confidence.
3. Messy Bun with a Headband
Perfect for second-day hair! Just gather hair into a loose bun and add a cute headband to pull it all together.
Tip: Use a scrunchie for extra hold and a soft look. This style works great for thick or curly hair, too.
4. Sleek Low Ponytail
This polished style takes under a minute and works for all ages. Part hair in the middle or to the side and secure it low at the neck.
Tip: Add a bow or clip for a fun pop. Use a little leave-in conditioner to smooth flyaways.
5. Half-Up Top Knot
This one’s trendy and adorable. Just take the top half of the hair, twist it into a bun, and secure with a small elastic or clip.
Tip: Great for girls who want hair out of their face but still down. Works on both long and medium hair.
6. Bubble Braids
Fun and playful, bubble braids are made by adding elastics every few inches down a ponytail and gently tugging each section to create “bubbles.”
Tip: Use colorful elastics to make it even more fun. This style works well for school spirit days!
7. Rope Twist Ponytail
Twist two sections of hair around each other and secure at the end—it looks more complicated than it is!
Tip: Start from a high or low ponytail base. Add a little styling cream if the hair is slippery.
8. Simple French Braid
A timeless favorite. The French braid keeps hair neat all day, and once you get the rhythm, it’s surprisingly fast.
Tip: Begin near the crown and braid all the way down. Try on damp hair if your child has fine or flyaway strands.
9. Pigtail Braids
Perfect for younger girls, pigtail braids are both cute and practical. Part hair down the middle and braid each side.
Tip: Use no-pull elastics and make the part as straight as possible with a comb. Add ribbons for extra sweetness.
10. Hairband Tuck-In Style
Place a fabric headband over the hair and tuck the lengths of hair into it all the way around—easy and elegant.
Tip: Works best with shoulder-length or longer hair. This one can stay in place all day with minimal fuss.
11. Criss-Cross Hair Clips Look
Section the top of the hair and pin each side diagonally with colorful clips—simple, fast, and super fun.
Tip: This is a great style for preschoolers or kids who hate tight hairstyles. Let them help choose the clips!
12. Low Bun with Scrunchie
Just twist the hair into a low bun at the nape and pop a scrunchie over it. It’s a softer, more comfortable alternative to a tight bun.
Tip: Perfect for ballet or uniform days. Use a bit of water to help smooth before styling.
13. Side Braid with Ribbons
Braiding off to one side adds a cute twist to the classic look. Weave a ribbon through the braid for extra flair.
Tip: Choose school colors or fun patterns. Great for picture day or class parties.
14. Quick Claw Clip Updo
Gather the hair, twist it upward, and secure with a large claw clip. It’s effortlessly stylish and perfect for older kids.
Tip: Great for when you’re in a real rush. Keep a clip in your car or bag for emergency touch-ups.
15. Headband Crown Style
Place a stretchy headband over the top of the head and wrap small sections of hair over and into the band to create a soft crown.
Tip: Works beautifully on longer hair. This one feels a little fancy, but still takes under 5 minutes.
Recommended Hair Products for School Mornings
I used to think any brush or hair tie would do—until I heard from moms who figured out the tools that actually make mornings easier. Whether you’re styling braids or taming bedhead, these simple products can save you time and tears.
Best Brushes and Combs
- Detangling Brush – Gentle and great for wet or dry hair. It helps avoid the tugging that makes little ones squirm.
- Wide-Tooth Comb – Perfect for distributing conditioner or parting hair neatly without breakage.
- Soft Boar Bristle Brush – Ideal for smoothing hair into ponytails or buns without pulling too hard.
Top Time-Saving Styling Tools
- Spray Bottle – Just a quick spritz helps tame flyaways or refresh curls without a full wash.
- Hair Dryer Brush (for older kids) – Speeds up drying and brushing in one step. Not necessary for little ones, but helpful if you’re in a rush.
- Mini Flat Iron (teen-friendly) – Good for quick touch-ups on bangs or ends—just use it safely and supervise younger kids!
Gentle Hair Products for Kids
- Tear-Free Detangling Spray – A mom must-have. Helps soften knots without the drama.
- Leave-In Conditioner – Great for keeping hair soft, manageable, and frizz-free throughout the day.
- Styling Gel or Cream – A little goes a long way for keeping styles neat. Choose alcohol-free and kid-safe formulas.
I keep all of these in a little “hair caddy” in the bathroom, so I’m not scrambling to find anything mid-morning rush. Trust me—having the right tools within reach can make even the busiest mornings a little calmer.
Conclusion
If there’s one thing I’ve learned from watching seasoned moms—and slowly finding my own groove—it’s that getting your child out the door doesn’t have to be stressful every morning. With a few quick, cute hairstyles and some time-saving tools, you can turn that early morning chaos into a routine that actually works.
You don’t need to be a pro stylist. You just need a little patience, a few go-to tricks, and the grace to know that “good enough” is sometimes more than enough.
Whether your little one is twirling in braids or rocking a messy bun, the most important thing is that they feel loved, cared for, and ready to face the day.
