Are your children wearing the right size, type & style of shoe?

Children's feet undergo significant changes as they grow, reflecting the rapid development and physical transformations occurring throughout childhood. From birth to adolescence, a child's feet grow quickly, with the most rapid growth occurring in the first few years of life.

During infancy and toddlerhood, the bones in the feet are still forming and are primarily composed of soft, flexible cartilage. As children begin to walk and explore their environment, their feet gradually strengthen and adapt to support their body weight and movement.

By the time they reach school age, their feet continue to grow and develop, requiring regular assessments to ensure they wear appropriately sized and supportive footwear. This period of growth is crucial, as improper footwear can lead to developmental issues and discomfort.

During the teenage years, the feet undergo further changes, often growing in size rapidly and stabilising as they approach adulthood. Regular monitoring and proper foot care are essential throughout these stages to ensure healthy foot development and to prevent long-term problems.

Toddler shoes

• Once your baby starts to walk unaided, typically around 12 to 18 months, it's time to consider proper footwear. Shoes at this stage should be lightweight, flexible, and made of breathable materials to allow natural foot movement and growth.

• When your child begins to walk outdoors, they will need shoes that provide protection. These should have a soft sole with good grip to prevent slips and falls, and they should be well-fitted to avoid restricting natural foot development.

• Children’s feet grow quickly, so it’s essential to have their feet measured regularly by a trained shoe fitter, ideally every 6 to 8 weeks in the first few years.

Children’s shoes

How many pairs of shoes does a child need?

1. Everyday Shoes:
   • 1 pair of well-fitting, comfortable shoes are essential for daily wear. These should provide good support and be suitable for a variety of activities, including running, playing, and walking.
2. School Shoes:
   • 1 pair of school shoes that are sturdy and appropriate for the school environment. Ensure they are comfortable and provide adequate support for all-day wear.
3. Outdoor/Play Shoes:
   • 1 pair of durable, play-specific shoes, such as trainers. These should be designed to handle rough play and outdoor activities.
4. Seasonal Footwear:
   • 1 pair of sandals for warm weather, which should be comfortable and provide some level of foot protection.
   • 1 pair of waterproof boots for wet or snowy conditions, keeping their feet dry and warm.
5. Sports Shoes:
   • 1 pair of sports-specific shoes, such as running shoes or soccer cleats, depending on the child’s interests and activities. Make sure these shoes are appropriate for the specific sport or activity.
6. Smart Shoes:
   • 1 pair of dress shoes for formal occasions or special events. These should be comfortable enough to wear for a few hours at a time.

Additional Tips:

• Regularly Check Fit: Children’s feet grow quickly, so it’s important to check their shoe size every few months.
• Rotate Shoes: Avoid wearing the same pair of shoes every day to give them time to air out and reduce the risk of fungal infections.
• Consider the Climate: Adjust the number and type of shoes based on the weather and activities in your area.

Teenage shoes

Advising a teenager on which shoes to wear can be a bit challenging, especially since teenagers often prioritise fashion and peer trends over comfort and functionality. Here are some tips on how to guide them towards making good footwear choices.

1. Understand Their Style Preferences

• Listen First: Ask your teenager about their style preferences and favourite brands. Understanding what they like can help you find shoes that meet both their style and functional needs.
• Find a Balance: Look for shoes that are stylish but also provide the necessary support and comfort.

2. Highlight the Importance of Comfort and Support

• Explain Consequences: Discuss how wearing the wrong type of shoes can lead to foot problems, discomfort, and even affect posture and overall health.
• Show Options: Introduce them to stylish brands that also focus on comfort and support. Many athletic and casual shoe brands now offer trendy designs.

3. Consider Their Activities

• Daily Wear: Recommend versatile shoes that are comfortable for daily wear, such as well-cushioned sneakers or casual shoes.
• Sports and Exercise: Emphasise the importance of wearing sport-specific shoes for activities like running, basketball, or gym workouts. These shoes are designed to provide the necessary support and reduce the risk of injury.
• Special Occasions: Suggest having a pair of dress shoes for formal events. Look for styles that offer both elegance and comfort.

4. Teach Proper Shoe Maintenance

• Rotation: Encourage them to rotate between different pairs of shoes to allow each pair to air out and maintain their shape.
• Cleaning: Show them how to properly clean and care for their shoes to extend their lifespan.

5. Prioritise Fit

• Proper Measurement: Ensure they get their feet measured regularly, as teens can still experience foot growth. A properly fitting shoe is crucial for comfort and foot health. Take a look at our shoe fitting guide.
• Try Before Buying: Advise them to always try on shoes and walk around in them to ensure they fit well and feel comfortable.

6. Encourage Practical Choices

• Seasonal Footwear: Suggest appropriate footwear for different seasons, such as waterproof boots for winter and breathable shoes for summer.
• Heel Height: For those interested in fashion, suggest limiting the use of high heels to special occasions and opting for lower, more supportive heels for regular wear.

7. Set a Good Example

• Lead by Example: Wear comfortable and appropriate shoes yourself to set a positive example.
• Be Supportive: Offer to go shoe shopping with them to provide guidance and support in making good choices.

Proper footwear is essential for children’s foot health at every stage of their development. Regular checks and consultations with professionals can prevent minor issues from becoming serious problems. If you have concerns about your children's feet or footwear, don't hesitate to seek advice. Taking these steps will help ensure your children’s feet stay healthy and well-supported as they grow.

If you are concerned about your child's foot health, get in touch.