Advice When Choosing
Baby Walking Shoes

I don't have a particular brand of baby shoe that I find better than another. I do however have particular criteria that I recommend that parents look for when they shop.

First I want to give you some facts on baby feet.(Huh?)

FEET FACTS
• It is normal for a new baby's feet to turn out. Babies have "froggy legs" when they are born and their feet turn out with their legs.
• Babies feet don't have arches initially. They have fat pads that normally cover the arch area until they start building muscles in their feet by standing.
• Toddlers' feet can continue to turn in or out until they have been walking for up to 6 months. NOTE: Legs should not turn in or out just the feet.
• After a toddler has been walking for 6 months or more you should be able to notice an arch forming and feet becoming straight.
• Toddlers that have flat arches will often have ankles that roll-in. This is noted best by watching a barefooted toddler walking away from you.
• Toddlers with flat arches will always have flat arches but arch supports can align hips,knees and ankles for proper body alignment which can improve coordination.
• Flat arches that are not corrected can lead to orthopedic problems later in life.

SHOE BUYING RULES
• Babies do not need walking shoes until they are up and walking consistently.
• Shoes do not help babies learn to walk. In fact,they can hinder the learning process by not allowing muscle to strengthen for balance and coordination.
• Barefoot inside and shoes outside is the best practice for young children toddling or just walking.
• Young children grow fast. You don't need to purchase expensive shoes for your toddler. You will be replacing them in 2-3 months anyway.
• Sneakers are the best baby walking shoes.(The mothers of baby girls every where cringe. What no cute sandals?)
• Buy light flexible sneakers for new walkers. Toddlers have a hard enough time keeping their balance they don't need to be lifting shoe weights too.
• Sneakers with a good arch is important for toddlers.
• Buy shoes that fit your toddler correctly. Shoes that are too big or too small can cause falls, blisters and lack of wearing compliance(The Shoe Wearing Wars).









---

Baby Walking Shoes

Baby Care

Home Page

---








SBI!