How Big Should Children's Shoes Be Bought?
Other People Are Reading
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Foot Growth
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The American Academy of Podiatrics (AAPS) tells us that children's feet stop growing between the ages of 15 and 17 for boys and 13 and 15 for girls. They suggest that shoes for children ages 12 to 30 months will require a size change every two months. Foot growth slows over the next four years. A size change is necessary every four months in children up to four years old and every six months in children from four to six years old.
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Statistical Averages
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The National Institute of Health warns us that sizes and shoe charts are based on the average. This is a good starting point, but a good rule to follow is to place one finger width from the end of the longest toe to the front of the shoe to allow for growth.
Bottom Line
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Proper fit is important. Use charts as a starting point. Rotate your children's shoes to avoid rapid ware and deterioration. Shop for shoes in the afternoon when feet are naturally swollen. Take into account of the thickness of the socks when trying on shoes.
References
- "Drennan's The Child's Foot and Ankle"; James J McCarthy and James C Drennan; 2006
- "The Good Foot Book: A Guide for Men, Women, Children, Athletes, Seniors - Everyone"; Glenn Copeland, Stan Solomon, and Mark Myerson M.D.; 2005
- "Podiatry: Webster's Timeline History, 1901 - 2007"; Icon Group International; 2009
- "Sports Medicine Eighty: A Review by the Members of the American Academy of Podiatric Sports Medicine"; Robert R. Rinaldi and Michael L. Sabia; 1980
- Photo Credit pink shoes image by leafy from Fotolia.com
