In today’s world it is almost a fashion statement to have your baby toddler in shoes that match each outfit. Here are some Tips for Picking New Shoes for Children in Kids Shoe Stores:

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#1. Always Measure

It is really important to measure a child’s feet accurately before buying them every pair of shoes. That’s because ill-fitting shoes can have a serious impact on your child’s foot health for years to come.

#2. Each Foot is Unique

Each child is unique and develops in their own time. A foot has 26 bones, 19 muscles and over 100 ligaments‚ which can take up to eighteen years to harden to adult form. This is why measuring your child’s feet for shoes is so important when you visit kids shoe stores.

#3. Babies Need Shoes Too

Babies’ feet don’t have bones‚ just soft cartilage which can easily be pushed out of shape by badly fitting shoes. Even socks that are too tight can damage their feet at this delicate stage.

Even before they start walking‚ babies’ feet need protection and support‚ and at each stage of their development‚ they have different needs.

#4. Make Sure All Footwear is Properly Fitted

Never put your child in shoes that are too big or too small. Make sure that all footwear including trainers are properly fitted.

You might also find Tips for Getting Baby’s First Shoes useful

#5. Don’t Hand Shoes Down

It’s important not to hand down shoes from one child to another as two pairs of feet are never the same shape.

#6. Buy for the Purpose

Try to get shoes that are designed for the purpose your child will use them for, otherwise they may not offer the support or wear you’re expecting.

#7. Opt for Natural Linings

Choose shoes with natural linings such as leather and socks with a high natural fibre content to allow feet to breathe.

#8. Caring for the Shoes and Feet

• Get socks that fit – if they’re too tight they will cramp the foot and can even deform it in very young children and if they’re too big they can bunch up and cause blisters.
• To keep shoes looking good‚ clean them regularly and apply a good quality polish to keep the leather soft and supple.
• Don’t dry wet shoes near direct heat – let them dry out naturally in a warm airy place. It might help to fill them with newspaper for a short time to absorb moisture and help them to keep their shape.
• Getting kids to use laces and buckles is an uphill struggle‚ but don’t let them force their feet in and out of shoes without unfastening them. Sometimes velcro fastenings can make life easier for everyone, and they make older children feel grown up because they are putting on their own shoes.
• Finally, cut toenails straight across and not too short. Don’t curve the nails when cutting‚ because this can encourage ingrowing toenails.

Tips provided by The Good Foot Shop in Donegal.

Over to you now. Any tips for buying kids shoes? Tell us in the comments below.