Purchasing the appropriate shoes for a baby can be a daunting task. Infants and toddlers require different aspects in their footwear, so it is important to ensure that your child has the best type of shoe for his or her age. With a simple review of pediatric recommended footwear and some research on where to buy the right shoe, the task of purchasing appropriate shoes can be easily performed.
Infants to One Year
Between infancy and the first year of life, most babies are beginning to show an interest in walking or are already walking. According to the Children's Hospital of San Diego, which frequently performs medical pediatric research, soft shoes or bare feet are generally the best option for when a child is beginning to learn walk. Additionally, the hospital indicates that stiff shoes can prevent effective movement by the child, inhibiting development. Thus, if you want to purchase a shoe, look for a soft shoe. Some soft shoe brands include Robeez and Pediped (see References), but there are many shoes out there to select from, so simply purchase what you prefer.
Toddlers
For toddlers, shoes become more important, as the toddler gains new gross motor skills. According to the Children's Hospital of San Diego, typical development milestones include running, jumping on both feet, climbing stairs without assistance and balancing on one leg for several seconds. Consequently, a sturdy, supportive shoe is appropriate at this age. Stride Rite shoes are high in quality and offer outstanding support. The store even offers high-top style shoes, which can provide further support to the child's ankle as the child begins to embark on, and master, new gross motor skills.
Strength-Building Exercises
In addition to purchasing the appropriate footwear for your child at either infancy or toddler age, you can supplement the correct shoe choice by encouraging the child to engage in strength-building exercises. For infants, such exercises can include manual flexing and extension of the feet and ankles. For an older child or toddler, going up and down stairs, playing in jumping games and/or kicking soccer balls can all promote the child's development.
Tags: According Children, According Children Hospital, appropriate shoes, Children Hospital, Children Hospital Diego
