In fact, the best shoe for a child is often no shoe at all, according to Carol Frey, associate clinical professor of orthopaedic surgery. Frey has just compiled a list of shoe-buying tips for the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society. Babies and crawlers need only wear socks or booties to keep their feet warm, she said. Toddlers, too, should be allowed to go sans shoes whenever they are in a protected environment. Going barefoot helps children develop stronger and more coordinated foot muscles, Frey explained.
Studies also show that barefoot children learn to walk more quickly and have fewer falls.
Up until age 11, children will outgrow their shoes as often as three times a year, making proper fit a must. Poorly fitting shoes can lead to bunions, calluses and foot deformities that will plague a child into adulthood, Frey said. To get a proper fit, measure both feet while a child is standing and fit shoes to the biggest foot. If the shoes fit, a child should be able to freely wiggle all toes while standing. Shoes should be immediately comfortable.