An astonishing 90% of children have problems with their feet which is why it’s so essential to care for them properly throughout their developing years. Keeping children’s feet clean, fit and comfortable is important for preserving foot health but there are lots of other things you can do too.

Baby’s first shoes

Here’s our guide to happy, healthy feet!

• Make sure that clothes, socks, booties and bedclothes aren’t too tight
  and give them plenty of room to move around.
• Sleepsuits can cause claw, retracted toes if they don’t fit properly.
  To ensure your baby’s feet have room to breathe during the night, opt
  for footless sleepsuits and put a loose pair of socks on instead.
• Inspect your child’s feet regularly for blisters, cuts and signs
  of infection. ·
• Stimulate the muscles by taking her socks and shoes off and encouraging
  her to stretch and flex her legs and feet.
• Wash feet properly every day, taking the time to clean carefully between
  the toes.
• Let her go barefoot as much as possible – particularly in the summer
  when feet tend to sweat more.
• Keep your child’s feet as clean and dry as possible. A baby’s foot
  perspires a lot quicker than adults so it’s important to use lightweight,
  absorbent and breathable socks and shoes that don’t smother their feet.
• Have your baby’s feet measured every 6 to 8 weeks when they are toddling
  and every 3 to 4 months when they are older.
• Avoid tights and socks made from synthetic materials – these stop
  the skin breathing properly and cause increased sweating.

Useful websites

• The Healthy Little Feet campaign sponsored by Start-rite – www.healthylittlefeet.com
• www.startriteshoes.com
• www.russellandbromley.co.uk
• www.bucklemyshoe.co.uk
• www.clarks.co.uk
• www.shoe-shop.org.uk
  (for a list of reputable fitters)

Where to next:

• Back to the Baby’s First Shoes main
  test page
• Read the parent panel review of the Clarks
  fitting service
• Visit the babyworld shop
• Become a parent panel member