Every parent faces a choice at least a few times a year: what children’s shoes will be best for our little one? Healthy shoes in the early stages of a child’s development are very important. Correct foot development can determine later postural defects and health problems.
At the beginning of a child’s adventure with walking, it is important to expose the foot to as many external factors and stimuli as possible. A sensory path, for example, can help ensure healthy foot development. The little foot still has undeveloped nerve endings, and initially, children’s feet develop at a rapid pace. When a child begins to wear his first shoes, the decision on which shoes to choose will be crucial for his feet.
Do ordinary children’s shoes deform the feet?
A child’s foot in the early stages of development is extremely susceptible to any curvature, deviation from normal foot movement, or simply stimuli. Ordinary, stiff shoes can not only hinder the proper development of the foot but even cause conditions such as hallux valgus or flat feet in the future. That’s why it’s important not only to take care of the shoe size but to make sure the child’s foot has room to develop.
How long does it take for a child’s feet to develop?
The development of small feet usually lasts until the age of 8. After this period, the foot begins to resemble that of an adult. On the other hand, the development of a child’s foot in terms of bones lasts up to the age of 14, and this is the most important period for the proper development of children. Of course, it is advisable to choose the first shoes, taking into account any possible postural defects, and to move slowly to larger sizes.
Soft children’s shoes – the best solution.
Children’s barefoot shoes are an excellent solution for the development of children’s feet. They are usually distinguished by several basic features that nullify possible harmful factors.
The main advantage of barefoot shoes is their soft sole. Such a design means that the sole of the shoe does not block the natural shape of the ground and even forces the foot into a healthy position. Remember that the foot needs not only stimulus but also space for proper development.
Another important feature is the precise width at the toe. Children’s shoes should not squeeze the toes together, thus avoiding such foot defects as hallux valgus. Ordinary shoe models usually have a stiffened toebox (remember the famous “move your toes?”), which at best will only rub and at worst will twist the toes. Children who walk barefoot or in minimalist shoes have healthier feet more often than those whose parents prefer to buy shoes from chain stores. When you have to choose your child’s first shoes, remember that your child’s foot should feel both the ground and the space between the toes.
What materials should children’s first shoes be made of
Above all, children’s shoes should be made of natural materials that will not cause irritation or allergic reactions. So the best solution for the foot of a young child will be natural materials, such as leather or vegan leather with rubber appliqué. The quality of children’s shoes is very important. That’s why it’s worth buying shoes where we can be sure of the materials from which they are made.
Where to buy shoes for children?
When it comes to children, it is not worth rushing into a decision or ordering shoes from the first better online shop. Remember that the shoes should not only be made of good materials and have the features mentioned above. The right size is also important. So it is worth doing some research, reading the descriptions and finally choosing the best ones. You will find healthy shoes in our shop, where we try to provide all the features from materials to workmanship that will ensure the healthy development of little feet. These are decent shoes from a Polish company where we are guided by family values.
What else can you do for your child’s healthy foot?
Even with good-quality barefoot children’s shoes, it is worth taking care of other aspects. These include exercise, stimulation, and even looking after the child’s overall posture. Not getting enough exercise or avoiding barefoot walking can ultimately be detrimental to the healthy development of children’s feet. If you have a suspicion that your child may have problems with the correct structure of the foot, it is worth visiting your child’s pediatrician and considering whether healthy preventive shoes can be introduced.
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