We get it getting ready in the morning can feel like a race against time, most importantly when you have to balance breakfast, getting ready to school, and expecting to look somewhat together. And in case your little one sporting hair that resembles that of a mini tornado? We all know the feeling girl.
But here’s the thing: learning how to braid a French braid is one of those mom hacks that makes life easier, not harder. It could be on you or your toddler and it would be completely achievable to master the art of the perfectly styled side hairstyle. And even though right now you probably only have baby wipes as your beauty tool (I hear you!), we are going to show you a step by step guide to achieving the classic hairstyle that will have you braiding like a pro.
Why Moms Should Learn How to French Braid
French braids are a lifesaver for moms. Here's why:
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They keep hair secure all day—great for active toddlers or sweaty mom workouts
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They work on both short and long hair
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They make you (and your little one) look put together with minimal effort
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They’re protective hairstyles, which help reduce tangles and breakage
What You’ll Need to Get Started
And here is what you will need, before we get to the how-to:
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A brush or a detangling comb
Spray bottle of water (in toddlers having fine hair)
Small leave-in conditioner/detangler
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Small elastic hair ties
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A mirror (a double mirror set up is good when you are braiding your own hair)
How to Braid a French Braid: Step-by-Step
Whether you're braiding your own hair or your toddler’s, the method is the same.
Step 1: Prep the Hair
Brush out all tangles and lightly dampen the hair. If it’s for your little one let them watch a cartoon while you do this – trust me!!
Step 2: Section Off the Starting Point
Take a triangle section from the top center of the head (just above the forehead). Divide it into three equal strands.
Step 3: Begin the Braid
Start with a regular braid:
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Cross the right strand over the middle
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Then pass the left sting over the new middle
Do this once or twice to set the base.
Step 4: Add Hair to Each Strand
Now the French part begins.
Whenever you cross one side strand over the center, just take a little bit of the loose hair on that side and put it in.
Keep it tight, but not so tight it hurts—especially on kids.
Step 5: Keep Going
Continue the pattern:
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Right strand over → add hair
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Left strand over → add hair
Continue to work the head down until it is out of hair to add.
Step 6: Finish with a Regular Braid
Once you reach the nape of the neck, braid the remaining hair as a normal three-strand braid.
Secure with a soft elastic.
How to French Braid Your Own Hair (Yes, It’s Possible!)
We know it sounds intimidating, but you can French braid your own hair—it just takes practice.
Tips:
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Start with slightly damp or dirty hair (clean hair is slippery)
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Use a double mirror setup if possible
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Don't aim for perfect. Messy braids are totally on-trend
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Practice on one side first before trying a full braid
Popular French Braid Styles for Toddlers
Once you’ve nailed the basics, try these cute variations:
1. Double French Braids (aka Braiding "in two")
Perfect for active days, these pigtail-style braids are adorable and functional.
2. Side French Braid
A soft, side-swept look that’s great for special occasions.
3. Crown Braid
Wraps around the head like a halo. Takes more time, but the photos? So worth it.
4. French Braid into Ponytail
French braid just the top section, then gather into a ponytail. Fast and stylish.
How to Braid French Braid in Pigtails (Tutorial for Moms)
Here's a quick way to create double French braids:
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Divide the hair in the middle of the forehead to neck.
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Clip one side away.
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Start French braiding one side, following the steps above.
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Repeat on the other side.
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Secure with colorful elastics or cute bows.
Pro Tip: Use a little mousse or gel to reduce flyaways.
How Long Does It Take to Learn?
Honestly? All you can do is practice it 3-5 times, then you will feel at ease.
And even when your initial few braids appear to be tangled pasta? Don’t stress. We all started there.
Common French Braid Mistakes to Avoid
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Grabbing uneven sections → causes bumps
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Braiding too loosely → falls out fast
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Starting too far back → you lose that sleek look
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Not using a mirror when doing your own → recipe for disaster
Related Reads You’ll Love:
Conclusion:
Come on, nobody is asking you to become a salon-level braider in a day or two. But learning how to braid a French braid is one of those little wins that just makes life easier. It saves you five minutes in the morning, prevents a fight over getting tangled and lets your little one enjoy a cute and confident beginning of the day. It is not just a hairstyle, it is one of those things those mothers have of saying I got you.
Then you do not have to worry about making a mess the first time. Or the third. Any braid can be improved on. You will learn to do this with your hands and then your brain will learn later.
You (braiding in the morning, for school, church, or simply to get hair out of your kiddo-s snack) are doing fabulous. And when you feel like you are not, please do come by to this post and breathe and remind yourself you are not alone.
Practice mama, practice. You are doing already the loveliest work of all.
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