Choosing the right shoes can help your child feel comfortable and confident as they walk, run, play, and participate in school activities throughout the day.
Here are a few things to look for when choosing your child’s school shoes:
What to Look For
A Good Fit
Your child should have enough room to wiggle their toes without their foot sliding around inside the shoe. Remember to check their size regularly as their feet grow!
A Secure Heel
Look for a shoe that keeps the heel comfortably in place. A secure heel helps prevent the foot from sliding around inside the shoe during walking and running.
Flexibility
The shoe should bend where your child’s foot naturally bends. Avoid shoes that are excessively stiff from heel to toe.
Good Traction
A grippy sole can help your child feel secure while running, playing on the playground, and participating in gym class.
Easy to Get On & Off
Velcro, elastic laces, and other easy closures can make it easier for younger children to manage their shoes independently.
Our Favorite Shoes for School
Don’t Forget About Fit!
Your child’s shoes should fit comfortably without being too tight or too loose. There should be enough room for their toes to move freely, and your child shouldn’t need to grip with their toes or change the way they walk to keep the shoe on.
And don’t wait until the first day of school to try them out! Have your child wear their new shoes around the house or for short outings before school begins. This gives you a chance to make sure they’re comfortable and can walk, run, climb, and play without any problems.
Every Child Is Different
As Pediatric PTs, we assess each child’s individual alignment and gait pattern when making shoe recommendations. For more specific and tailored guidance feel free to reach out to us directly!
Read more about back to school gear in our Backpack for Kids post!
Learn more about Dinosaur Physical Therapy!
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