What Are the Best Shoes for Toddlers?
Toddlers' feet develop as they learn to walk. They receive important sensory information from the soles of their feet, so toddlers should be allowed to go barefoot often. Shoes that are tight or have hard soles make learning to walk difficult. Toddlers need shoes outdoors, of course, or in cold weather. Buying shoes that offer comfort, flexibility and stability is essential.
Other People Are Reading
-
Round Toes
-
Look for shoes that are roomy and comfortable around the toes. Toddlers' bones are pliable and the feet are soft, so constricting shoes bend them out of shape without causing any initial symptoms. If he's wearing tight shoes, your toddler may not complain of discomfort until he has already developed a problem with his feet. Pointed and pinched shoes can also lead to ailments such as bunions and ingrown toenails, so always buy round-toed shoes.
Fastening
-
Buy shoes that are easy to fasten securely so the heel does not slip when the toddler is walking, and she doesn't have to grip with her feet to keep the footwear on. Busy moms might want to choose Velcro straps instead of laces so it's quicker and easier to put the shoes on. Toddlers can also learn how to put on their own shoes if they have Velcro straps.
-
Material
-
Hard, rigid soles are uncomfortable for tiny feet and make learning to walk difficult because the toddler cannot feel the ground. Good toddlers' shoes have flexible rubber soles. As with adult's shoes, natural breathable materials such as leather or canvas are best. Plastic shoes trap moisture from perspiration and can harbor bacteria, leading to foot odor or even fungal infections.
Buying
-
Buy shoes from a shop that measures your toddler's feet properly. Push down the front of the shoe to make sure the child's toes have room to wiggle. Run a finger around the inside of the shoes to ensure that there are no seams to irritate the feet. A toddler's shoes need to be replaced often, so buy affordable shoes of good quality rather than expensive designer shoes. Fashionable and healthy styles for toddlers include Mary Janes, T-bar shoes and sturdy sneakers.
-
References
Resources
- Photo Credit Jupiterimages/Photos.com/Getty Images
