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Children's Shoes
Children don't need shoes until they begin walking, usually at around 12 to 15 months of age. Until then, socks or booties are enough to protect a crawling infant's feet and keep them warm. When your child does begin standing and walking, however, shoes provide an excellent form of protection from injury. After your child begins wearing shoes, there is nothing wrong with letting him or her go barefoot indoors.

A good time to buy your child's first pair of shoes is when he or she starts standing and walking. Shoe stores that specialize in children's shoes are likely to offer the widest range of sizes and styles, and will usually take more time to make sure a pair of shoes fits properly.

Never try to force your child's feet to fit a pair of shoes.

A soft, pliable shoe with plenty of room, such as a sneaker, is the ideal shoe for children of all ages. The toe box should provide enough space for growth, and should be wide enough to allow the toes to wiggle. (A finger's breadth of extra length will usually allow for about three to six months' worth of growth, though this can vary depending on your child's age and rate of growth.)

If your child frequently removes his or her shoes, those shoes may be uncomfortable. Check your child's feet periodically for signs of too-tight shoes, such as redness, callouses or blisters. And have your child's feet measured periodically at the shoe store to determine whether his or her feet have grown enough to warrant a larger pair of shoes.

Remember that the primary purpose of shoes is to prevent injury. Shoes seldom correct children's foot deformities or change a foot's growth pattern. Casting, bracing or surgery are often needed if a serious deformity is present. If you notice a problem, have your child examined by an orthopaedic surgeon.

Because high-top shoes tie above the ankle, they are recommended for younger children who may have trouble keeping their shoes on. Contrary to common belief, however, high-top shoes offer no advantages in terms of foot or ankle support over their low-cut counterparts.

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