Top 10 Questions
You have kids’ shoe questions, we have answers. That’s our job, to get your child into the most healthy, stylish, and durable shoes we can… oh and make it fun!
The #1 most asked question of all time…
“How fast will my child’s foot grow?” We have the answer!
On average, a child age 12-18 months will outgrow a shoe in 12-15 weeks. A child age 18 months to 2 years will stay in a size for 4 months. A child 2-4 years will stay in a shoe size from 4-6 months. Once a child turns 5-and older it becomes a matter of wear and tear more than shoe size. At this age, children become much more active, and they can literally wear out a pair of quality shoes in 4-6 months.
The #2 most asked question is…
“How many pairs of shoes should my child have at any one time?”
Think about it; if you wore one pair of shoes every single day, how badly will they look in 3 months? Or in 5 months? Now wear that shoe, and get yourself a scooter or trike and drag your toes to turn and stop. Then jump in every puddle possible…on purpose! Finally put them on, and take them off without ever untying them. Seriously, for your child’s foot health, a shoe should be given a chance to air out and breathe. Rotating shoes actually make the shoes last longer, and your child will be happier and healthier.
Other Questions Include…
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- What are the most critical years for foot development for a child?
The critical development years happen from infancy into the toddler years. Children’s feet continue to develop until they’re approximately 18 years old, so it’s important to start taking care of their feet early. At this age, children’s foot bones are developing and can literally be molded. The proper footwear can ensure a lifetime of healthy feet. - How do children’s foot bones develop during their first years of life?
A baby’s foot is not simply a smaller version of an adult’s. The bones in a baby’s foot are composed of cartilage, the same flexible substance you find in your ears and nose. Eventually, these bones harden to form 26 bones in your child’s feet that will last a lifetime. A shoe that is too rigid or even too tight can effectively change the shape of your child’s foot. This is why most physicians believe that barefoot walking is best for small children, because it allows for the natural development of the foot. Around 70% of foot problems come from wearing the wrong footwear or ill-fitting shoes. - What are the most important things when trying to find a children’s shoe for pre-walkers (infants) and then when they start walking?
Choose shoes that give stability and protection to feet. An ideal shoe should be soft and flexible, with breathable leather uppers and a fully adjustable fastening for a snug fit. The shoes should have a smooth bottom, like the palm of your hand. The smooth sole means less friction so the shoe won’t grab the floor, possibly causing your child to fall. Shoes that are too sticky also tend to change a child’s stride or gait as they have to lift their feet to move about. Choose a shoe that most mimics barefoot walking. Children’s feet sweat a lot, so don’t buy synthetic shoes, as they won’t allow your child’s feet to breathe. Synthetic materials tend to not stretch and the resulting pressure could damage a child’s growing foot. - What is your point of view on rubber soles for first walkers?
The sole of a shoe should be smooth like the palm of your hand. A smooth sole means less friction, so the shoe won’t grab the floor, possibly causing your child to fall. Choose a light-weight shoe. - What should parents know about children’s feet and shoes?
Don’t let your child wear hand me down shoes. Because most shoes mold to the foot, wearing hand me downs can affect the shape of your child’s foot. - What do you recommend to parents who ask you about shoes for their children?
When your child first begins to walk, shoes are not necessary indoors. Allowing your youngster to go barefoot or to wear only socks helps the foot to grow normally and to develop its musculature and strength, as well as the grasping action of toes. Of course, when walking outside or on rough surfaces, babies’ feet should be protected in lightweight, flexible footwear made of natural materials. Children’s feet grow in spurts and require new shoes every 3 to 4 months. - How would you describe the ideal shoe for an active toddler (3-5yrs)?
Children’s feet grow in spurts and require new shoes every three to four months, so it’s important to make sure your child’s shoes fit properly. Look for shoes with a rounded toe box that give plenty of room for little toes to move and wiggle. Children’s feet perspire a lot, so the top of the shoe should be made of a breathable material, like leather or canvas. I would avoid man made material, such as plastic because such material can cause odor or even bacteria growth. The outer sole of the shoe provides traction, cushioning and flexibility, so look for a sole that feels as smooth as the palm of your hand. I recommend leather soles because they allow a child’s gait and stride to develop naturally. And finally, stay away from heels, please. A good flat sole shoe is the closest thing to natural walking. Remember, shoes should be comfortable from the start. If new shoes need to be “broken in,” it means either they were not properly designed or not properly fitted for your child’s foot. - Does it make sense to spend a lot of money on shoes that kids outgrow so quickly?
As a dad of 6 kids, I understand budgets, and the endless assault on them. But this is an easy one, and not just because I sell shoes for children. I am commited to deliver to the world, 6 young adults who have solid faith, a strong sense of social responsibility, and who are prepared to make their world a better place to live. I must have their best interest at heart. It becomes a matter of priority. Children’s feet take years to fully develop, and providing them with quality shoes, a professional fit, and the best support is critical. I tell the story of a dad who loudly complained in the store one very busy Saturday, about the cost of children’s shoes. He was dressed in golf attire and had a great tan except for the raccoon eyes from his sunglasses. I asked him about the cost of a round of golf on a weekend. He replied, “about $80″. I queried him about priorities, and how he justified spending $80 and 6 hours every Saturday, yet complained about his son’s $50 shoes that would support him comfortably for 4 months. I said he would spend $1280 on his golf game in the same time frame his son would wear a $50 pair of shoes. It is all about priorities!
