Do Toddlers Need Shoes?

As soon as your child is confident enough to walk outside without falling down, it’s time to start buying their first pair of shoes. Their delicate skin needs protection from the elements, so it's the shoes’ job to provide that protection.

 What exactly is a toddler?

According to Wikipedia, a toddler is a child that is approximately 12 to 36 months old.

Toddlers are still developing physically, emotionally, socially, cognitively and behaviourally.

It is important to recognise that development occurs on a continuous scale, with significant individual differences between individuals.

There is a wide range from which one could consider "normal" development.

Experts say that children grow at different rates and some may take longer than others to achieve certain developmental milestones. Parents shouldn't be overly concerned if their child doesn't meet every milestone by his or her age.

Should Toddlers Wear Shoes?

This is a question that gets asked regularly.  

Experts say that babies should be allowed to learn to walk without shoes. 

The human foot consists of 26 bones, 33 joints, and over 100 muscles and ligaments, and babies learning to walk typically get feedback from the ground when they walk barefoot. 

It helps them develop their awareness of their position relative to the ground and the space around them.

When you start to buy shoes for your toddler it's important to be aware of this so that you avoid putting too much pressure on their feet while wearing shoes.

Poorly fitting shoes can cause blisters, calluses, corns, and ingrown nails.

When should I get shoes for my Toddler?

Your toddler is growing up fast. He or she is learning how to stand, walk, run, jump, climb stairs, ride a bike, go swimming, play sports, and even take care of themselves.

Shoes are an important part of that process.

But what type of shoes do you buy? How much does it cost? What size should he or she wear? And what about socks? These questions are common among parents looking for answers.

Fortunately, there are some things you can do to make sure your child gets the best possible start in life.

Most babies begin to walk at approximately eight to eighteen months old. When they're walking around the home, allow them to go barefoot so their toes can move and develop the mechanics needed for the demands of everyday life.

As soon as your child is confident enough to walk outside without falling down, it’s time to start buying their first pair of shoes.

Your toddler's delicate skin needs protection from the elements, so it's the shoes’ job to provide that protection.

What Types of Shoes Are Best For Toddlers

The most important thing a parent needs to know about toddler shoes is that you want soft, flexible shoes.

These types of shoes are better for toddlers because they allow them to move freely while walking.

They won't develop calluses as adults do, and it's much easier to keep their feet clean.

In addition, soft, flexible shoes are great for helping toddlers learn how to walk correctly.

When choosing a pair of shoes for toddlers, look for ones that are lightweight and flexible. Look for shoes that fit well and don't pinch toes.

If you're concerned about what type of material your child will wear, make sure that it's breathable.

Choose materials such as leather, suede, canvas, cotton, or mesh. Avoid synthetic fabrics, including nylon, polyester, and vinyl.

Some suggestions about buying shoes for your toddler include:

• Make sure that the shoe fits properly by choosing the correct size, width, and depth. Don't choose too loose or too tight.
• Your shoes should be light and flexible, made from naturally occurring materials so your child‘s foot can breathe.
• Secure shoes should be attached securely to the foot using straps or buckles.
• Each shoe’s inner edge should be straight; each toe area should be broad and deep (not pointy).
• Heels should be supportive and firm, so your child’s feet don't slide around.

Hopefully, we've answered the question "Do Toddlers Need Shoes". When you are ready to buy shoes for your toddler check out our complete range of toddler shoes for boys and girls.