For a while now, though less so today, baby shoes carried such emotional significance that people would bronze them to preserve the memory of a child’s first steps. In as much heart-meltingly cute as they are, tiny sneakers and Mary Janes are not the best way for a toddler/child to start toddling, some experts says.

Below, we will be looking at when a child should start wearing shoes

Before a baby starts walking, bare feet or socks are best, though any kind of shoes can be worn for decoration or warmth or to help keep the socks on. There’s no harm sone when shoes encaes dangling feet, as long as they are not too tight or uncomfortable or have straps pinching their flesh.
Also, once infants start taking steps, going barefoot is still ideal because they learn to walk and balance better when they can use their toes to grip, Jana said. To keep feet clean, warm and protected from the minefield of things they could step on , use socks with rubber grips on bottom, so that they don’t slip.

However, when a child start tottering around outside and need more protection than socks provide, choose flexible shoes that you can bend in half and twist. Rubber soles are better than leather because they are less likely to slip. Aim for soft materials for the upper part of the shoe so that the foot bends easily and the material doesn’t cut into the skin. Closed-toe shoes are best because kids tend to drag their toes and might scratch their toes in open-toe shoes.

Also, since these kids are not necessarily going to be wearing them that long, it is not that advisable to buy a big and fancy shoe. The important thing is to ensure that the kids are comfortable.
Furthermore, at 4 or 5 years old, child can start wearing shoes with more support. The same guidelines apply to kids who are pigeon-toed or have other foot deformities, though if parents are concerned they should see a pediatrist to determine if special accommodations are needed. Conditions like club feet require physician attention and sometimes casting and surgery.

Few Shoe-buying tips For A Child

Make sure that your child runs around the shoe store and likes the shoes for their comfort, not just their sparkles. If you notice any grimances or complaints, steer clear of that pair of shoes.
Choose shoes that have little less than thumb’s width of room at the toe so that your child can grow into it. When their toe approaches the end, it’s time to buy a new pair.

Avoid sharing or handing down a child’s shoes, especially ones that were worn everyday. Shoes need to be broken into a child’s individual foot.
Endeavour to fit shoes towards the end of the day when the feet are a little swollen.