Our latest poll results indicate that over 65% of your kids have over 7 pairs in their closet. While it’s fun to have just the right shoe to complete his/her look, it’s important not to skimp on quality.
Children’s feet grow fastest during the first year of life (to nearly half of it’s adult size). 
Proper foot development is instrumental to your child’s gait and posture and can even effect one’s personality if problems occur. This is why it’s so important to choose a shoe that is well-made and fits properly to ensure healthy feet in the future.
When a child begins to walk, barefoot is best (indoors of course). This allows the foot to develop its musculature and strength and lets their piggies master grasping techniques. As children grow more independent, shoes are necessary and should be checked for size and fit on a regular basis (every season is a good rule of thumb).
When buying shoes for your kids, it’s important to keep the following list in mind;
- Always have your child’s foot measured. Since little fit are constantly growing, it’s important that shoes are not too big nor too small. Leaving a little extra room for growth is fine, just be sure it’s not more than one size larger than their current size.
- Choose leather or canvas. These fabrics breathe better than synthetic materials which makes them a more comfortable and healthier choice for little feet.
- Choose a shoe with proper cushioning. Kids feet need support as they actively hit the pavement on the playground and wood floors in the gym at school. If your kids are in athletics, be sure to provide the correct shoe for the sport.
- Choose shoes with flexible soles. Flexibility at the ball of the foot is important to avoid injury. Choose shoes that are pliable and provide traction to avoid slips and falls.
- Make sure they are comfortable. If you want the shoes to be worn, be sure your child approves of them. Shoes that fit correctly from the start will not need time to be broken in.
Having a shoe for every outfit isn’t necessary. 
However, it is wise to have at least three in your child’s closet. A pair for play, an everyday shoe and one that won’t embarrass you when you take them out for dinner on Sunday (like the boys shoes pictured here by Primigi).
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