Children's foot health
Children’s feet are not the same as adults’ feet. Here are some tips for taking care of your child’s feet.
- Babies’ and toddlers’ feet are soft and pliable because the bones are not yet completely formed. Their feet can be damaged by too much pressure, for example by shoes that are too tight.
- Toddlers do not need shoes indoors when they first start to walk. Letting them go barefoot or wearing socks alone helps their feet grow normally and encourages their toes to develop a grasping action.
- Most toddlers who walk with their feet pointed inwards or outwards, and those who walk on their toes, will be walking normally by the time they are 2. Take your child to a doctor or podiatrist if these walking patterns persist beyond the age of 2, or if you are worried.
- Feet grow rapidly during childhood. Check that your child’s shoes fit properly every one to 3 months up to the age of 3 years, every 4 months between 3 and 5 and every 6 months for children over 5.
- Make sure children wear fresh cotton socks daily and that they air their shoes overnight — this can help reduce skin problems.
- When choosing shoes for children, there should be about 1 cm ‘growing room’ between the longest toe and the end of the shoe. The shoe should also fit the foot’s natural shape, especially around the toes.
- Always have both of your child’s feet measured for length and width.
- Flat feet are common in children, but are not necessarily a problem. However, take your child to a doctor or podiatrist if flat feet are causing pain or affecting your child’s walking or other activities.
Last Reviewed: 11 October 2007
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