Every parent wants the best for their children, especially when it comes to their health. As children grow, it’s important to monitor every aspect of their development, and this includes their feet and ankles. Here we share some tips for parents, so they are prepared to help their child’s feet stay healthy and develop properly.
Let Them Go Barefoot
No one is born with shoes on, and as feet continue to grow, we shouldn’t over-rely on shoes. They are necessary when your child is out on the town, to protect their feet from sharp objects like rocks and broken glass. However, when you are at home, or when sharp objects aren’t a risk, leave the shoes at the door. Walking barefoot allows your child to use all the muscles in their feet, which encourages correct growth and development.
Make Sure Their Shoes Fit Properly
If your daughter loves your niece’s hand-me-downs because they’re stylish and well taken care of, it’s a great way to save money and teach your child about reusing items. However, when it comes to your child’s feet, purchasing new shoes, and making sure they are properly fitted, is crucial to their development. Ill-fitting shoes, or shoes that are worn out in one way or another can cause various foot and ankle problems.
Additionally, children’s feet grow fast, so make sure to keep a close eye on how their shoes fit. Children have been known to squeeze their foot into a pair of shoes they don’t want to quit wearing for any number of reasons. For instance, if your child has a favorite cartoon, and they have a pair of shoes featuring the main character in a certain style and color, they may not want to give those shoes up—even if their toes are scrunched!
Have Your Child’s Feet Checked Regularly
It’s important for your child to be getting regular physicals while they are growing and developing, and it’s equally important to make sure their feet are checked during these appointments. Between check-ups, keep an eye on your child’s feet, and if you notice any walking abnormalities, reach out to a qualified foot specialist. Like most other health conditions, the sooner a problem is diagnosed and addressed, the better the treatment results are likely to be.
For more information, or if you have any questions or concerns about the growth and development of your child’s feet, reach out to one of our experts at Alpine Foot Specialists.