How to Create Fun and Easy Bubble Braids for Kids

Bubble braids, also called poodle puffs or bubble plaits, are a fun hairstyle where ponytails are sectioned with multiple hair ties to create a “bubble” effect. By adding a hair tie every few inches, you can create volume and texture, making this style a great choice for natural hair—one of the reasons I love it!
Because this look is so adorable, I’m excited to share this guide on how to achieve bubble braids at home. By the end, you’ll know exactly how to create, care for, and style bubble braids, turning your natural hair into a stunning and effortless look.



ALSO READ : How to Create Fun and Easy Bantu Knots for Kids
Essential Tools and Products for Bubble Braids
Before diving into the step-by-step tutorials, let’s cover the basics of what you’ll need to get started. This style can be done on either freshly washed hair or blown-out hair, depending on the look you’re going for and the method that feels most manageable. The great thing about bubble braids is that they don’t require a lot of tools, making them simple and accessible.
- Hairbrush or Detangling Comb
- Rat-tail comb (for parting)
- Hair ties (bright colors for a fun touch, or clear for a sleek look)
- Hair serum or leave-in conditioner, and hairspray for a polished finish
- Accessories: Fun clips or bows
Step-by-Step Guide to Bubble Braids for Kids
1. Prep the Hair
- Start with clean or slightly textured hair: It’s often easier to create bubble braids when the hair has a little texture, so don’t worry if the hair isn’t freshly washed. You can use a bit of leave-in conditioner or hair serum to help smooth and manage the hair.
- Detangle the hair: Gently brush or comb through the hair to remove any knots or tangles.
2. Part the Hair
- Decide on the style: Bubble braids can be done as a single ponytail, pigtails, or multiple bubble braids.
- For a classic look, part the hair down the middle with a rat-tail comb and create two ponytails.
- For a single braid, simply gather all the hair into one ponytail, either high or low.
3. Create the Base Ponytails
- Secure the ponytails: Once you’ve decided on the style (single or pigtails), gather the hair and secure it with a hair tie. Make sure the ponytails are tight enough to hold but not too tight that it causes discomfort.
- If your child has shorter hair, you can also create smaller sections for mini bubble braids!



4. Make the Bubbles
- Add more elastics: Starting about an inch or two below the first hair tie, add a second elastic.
- Create the first bubble: Gently pull the hair between the two elastics to form a “bubble” shape. You can make the bubbles bigger or smaller depending on how much you pull.
- Repeat down the length of the ponytail: Keep adding hair ties at equal intervals down the ponytail, pulling out the sections in between to create more bubbles. For longer hair, you can create more bubbles, while for shorter hair, 2-3 bubbles may be enough.
5. Adjust the Bubbles
- Fluff the bubbles: For extra volume and a fuller look, gently tug on the hair in each bubble to make them more rounded.
- Balance the size: Make sure all the bubbles are evenly sized by adjusting the amount of hair you pull out. This gives a clean, polished look.
6. Secure the Ends
- Finish with a final hair tie: Once you reach the ends of the ponytail, secure the hair with one last elastic to keep everything in place.
- Tame flyaways: If needed, apply a light spritz of hairspray or use a bit of leave-in conditioner to smooth any stray hairs.
Products
Personalizing Bubble Braids for Kids
- Add Accessories: Kids love fun accessories! You can add colorful clips, bows, or ribbons at the base of the ponytail or between the bubbles to add some extra flair.
- Experiment with Bubble Sizes: For a playful look, try making some bubbles larger than others. You can also adjust the spacing between elastics to create either compact or more stretched-out bubbles.
- Try Different Sections: Instead of just two ponytails, you can create multiple bubble braids by dividing the hair into several sections. This works especially well for younger kids with shorter hair.



Why Bubble Braids are Perfect for Kids
- Quick and Easy: Even on busy school mornings, bubble braids are easy to achieve in just a few minutes.
- No Braiding Required: If you’re not skilled at braiding, bubble braids are a great alternative. You can create a stylish look without having to master any intricate techniques.
- Stays in Place: Bubble braids are durable and secure, making them perfect for active kids who love to run, jump, and play.



Tips for Parents
- Use soft elastics: Opt for snag-free or fabric-covered elastics to protect your child’s hair from breakage.
- Prep the night before: If mornings are hectic, you can prep the hair the night before by parting it and securing the ponytails, leaving the bubbles to be created in the morning.
- Keep it fun: Let your child choose their favorite colors or accessories to make the process interactive and enjoyable for them.
Conclusion
Bubble braids are a cute, stylish, and practical hairstyle for kids of all ages. Whether it’s for a casual day out or a special event, this hairstyle can be easily personalized to suit your child’s personality and preferences. Try out bubble braids for your little one and watch them rock this trendy look with confidence!