👣 Caring for Children’s Feet: A Parent’s Guide to Healthy Growth

Published by My Foot Care ClinicLearn how to care for your child’s feet with expert advice from My Foot Care Clinic. Discover how to choose the right shoes, when to replace them, and why barefoot time is essential for healthy development.

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Why Children’s Foot Health Matters

Children’s feet grow and change rapidly. During these early years, their bones, muscles, and joints are still developing — which means proper footwear and foot care are essential. At My Foot Care Clinic, we see many common foot issues that could have been avoided with early attention to fit, comfort, and footwear habits.

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1. Check Your Child’s Feet Regularly

Children often won’t mention foot pain until it becomes severe. That’s why regular checks are so important. Look for:

• Red marks, blisters, or pressure spots

• Changes in walking or posture

• Uneven shoe wear or frequent tripping

If you notice any of these signs, it might be time for a professional foot assessment. Our team at My Foot Care Clinic can help ensure your child’s feet are growing healthily and pain-free.

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2. Always Measure Feet When Buying Shoes

When buying new shoes, make sure your child’s feet are properly measured — both in length and width — with your child standing up.
Children’s feet can grow quickly, often needing new shoes every 3–6 months.

✅ Top tip: Leave about a thumb’s width of space at the front of the shoe so toes can move freely and grow naturally. Shoes should be supportive, breathable, and flexible — not stiff or heavy.

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3. Pick the Right Socks

Socks play a bigger role than most parents realise. Too-tight socks can restrict blood flow and prevent natural toe movement.
Choose socks that:

• Allow toes to fan out naturally

• Fit comfortably without wrinkling

• Are made from breathable materials like cotton or bamboo

Good socks mean happy, healthy feet.

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4. Don’t Pass Shoes Between Children

It can be tempting to reuse or pass down shoes that still “look fine,” but every child’s foot shape is unique. Shoes mould to the wearer’s feet and may cause discomfort or misalignment for another child.
For the best foot health, always buy shoes new and fitted specifically to your child.

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5. Let Them Go Barefoot

Whenever it’s safe — indoors or on soft grass — let your child go barefoot. This encourages:

• Stronger foot muscles

• Better balance and coordination

• Natural movement and flexibility

Barefoot play also helps children learn how to grip, stabilise, and walk confidently.

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Final Thoughts

Healthy feet are the foundation for a lifetime of movement and activity.
By choosing the right shoes, checking for growth, and encouraging barefoot time, you can help your child develop strong, pain-free feet.

If you’re unsure about your child’s footwear, growth, or walking pattern, book a children’s foot assessment at My Foot Care Clinic today. Our podiatry experts specialise in children’s foot health and can provide tailored advice and care for every stage of growth.