Foot Health Tips for Kids | Start Rite Shoes

• Never put your child in shoes that are too big or too small, and make sure that all footwear, including trainers, are properly fitted to allow not only their feet, but their whole body to develop naturally and be as biomechanically efficient as your child can be.

• Don't hand shoes down from one child to another - no two pairs of feet are ever the same shape or size and shoes can mould to a child’s foot form and wear out to match their gait. Handing shoes down can actually cause problems with the new wearer.

• Cut toenails straight across and not too short - don't curve them‚ because this can encourage in-growing toenails.

• Encourage being active from a young age as this will significantly improve your child’s coordination and mechanical development.

• Get socks that fit - if they're too tight they will cramp the foot, restrict the blood supply and can compromise natural development in very young children as they have very little bone architecture at this stage and if they're too big they can simply bunch up and cause blisters.

• Choose shoes with breathable linings such as leather or mesh and socks with a high natural fibre content to allow feet to breathe.

• Ensure you measure your child’s feet regularly to ensure their shoes are not constricting their development.

• To keep shoes looking good and lasting longer‚ clean them regularly and apply a good quality polish to keep the leather soft and supple.

• Don't dry wet shoes near direct heat - let them dry out naturally in a warm airy place otherwise the leathers and glue will suffer, potentially stiffening or cracking. It might help to fill them with newspaper for a short time to absorb moisture and help them to keep their shape.

• Try to get shoes that are designed for the right purpose and activity, otherwise they may not offer the features or wear you're expecting.

• Getting children to use laces and buckles is an uphill struggle‚ but don't let them force their feet in and out of shoes without unfastening them. Sometimes rip tape fastenings can make life easier for everyone, and they make younger children feel grown up because they are putting on their own shoes.