The importance of properly fitted school shoes for kids: A guide for parents

When preparing kids for school, parents often focus on items like uniforms, books, and backpacks. However, one crucial item that should never be overlooked is properly fitted school shoes. Ensuring that children wear shoes that fit well plays a vital role in their overall health, development, and school performance.

Let’s explore why it’s so important and how parents can ensure they’re making the right choice when it comes to school footwear.

1. Promoting foot development

Children’s feet grow rapidly during their early years and wearing shoes that don’t fit properly can interfere with this natural development. Tight shoes can lead to a range of foot problems, including blisters, calluses, ingrown toenails and even deformities like bunions and hammertoes. By choosing shoes that allow for natural foot growth and provide ample space in the toe area, parents can help their child’s feet develop correctly.

2. Reducing the risk of injuries

Incorrect-fitting shoes can affect how a child walks, potentially increasing the risk of sprains, falls, and other injuries. Shoes that are too tight or too loose may affect balance, leading to slips and trips. Well-fitted shoes can offer better support, cushioning, and stability, helping to reduce the chances of falls or foot injuries. This is particularly important for children who are very active and spend a lot of time running, jumping, or playing sports.

3. Boosting comfort and confidence

Imagine spending an entire day in shoes that pinch or rub your feet. For children, this discomfort can be distracting and can significantly affect their concentration at school. Properly fitted shoes ensure that kids can move comfortably throughout their day, from classroom activities to playtime. When children are comfortable, they are more likely to stay focused, participate confidently in physical activities, and engage socially with friends.

4. Preventing long-term problems

Wearing ill-fitting shoes over time can cause more serious foot problems down the road. For instance, poorly fitted shoes can contribute to deformed toenails, joint pain, arthritis, or musculoskeletal issues as a child grows. Ensuring a proper fit now can help prevent these long-term health problems and support healthy foot development.

Top Tips for Getting the Right Fit

Measure their feet regularly: Children’s feet grow rapidly, so it’s essential to measure their feet every 3-6 months to ensure their shoes are still the right size.
Check the length and width of their feet: Always check that there is about a thumb’s width of space between the end of the shoe and your child’s longest toe.
Opt for adjustable closures: Shoes with laces or velcro straps allow for a more customisable fit, ensuring better comfort and support.

When To See a Podiatrist

While regular shoe fittings are important, there are times when parents should seek professional help. If you notice any of the following, consider taking your child to a podiatrist:

Choosing the right shoes based on your child's activities helps protect their feet, prevent injuries, and promote healthy growth.

Recurring pain: Complaints of foot, ankle, knee, or leg pain, especially after physical activities or waking up with pain.
Irregular walking patterns: Signs of toe walking, in-toeing, or frequent tripping.
Skin or toenail problems: Issues such as ingrown toenails, plantar warts, or fungal infections.
Sports Injuries: Early visits to a podiatrist can help manage injuries before they become chronic

Early visits to a podiatrist can ensure that any potential foot issues such as flat feet or alignment problems are caught and addressed early, helping to prevent long-term complications.

Knowing When to Replace Shoes

Kids’ feet grow quickly, and their shoes often wear out even faster. Here’s how to know when it’s time for a new pair:

Visible Damage: Look for holes, worn-out soles, or stitching that’s coming undone.
Growth Spurts: If the shoes feel tight or leave red marks on your child’s feet, it’s time for a bigger size.
Foot Pain: Complaints of discomfort, especially in the toe or heel areas.
Activity Changes: Sports shoes tend to wear out faster than leather shoes, so replace them more frequently.

What To Expect From A Podiatrist Visit

A child’s first podiatrist visit is usually stress-free and educational. The podiatrist will assess the child’s feet, gait, and posture, checking for any abnormalities like flat feet or issues with walking. They may also provide advice on the right type of footwear to support healthy foot growth and development. If necessary, they may recommend treatments such as orthotics, exercises, or toenail care.

In conclusion, properly fitted shoes are essential for your child’s comfort, safety, and long-term health. By measuring their feet regularly, ensuring a good fit, and taking them for professional assessments when needed, you’ll be setting them up for success both in the classroom and beyond.

Thank you, Dr Latifa Jafari, Senior Podiatrist at Elite Podiatry for your contribution.