HOW TO LOOK AFTER YOUR BABY’S FEET
It’s important to wash and dry your little one’s feet thoroughly on a daily basis. You should also check and trim their toe nails regularly, but never cut them too short. If you’re a little nervous using nail scissors to cut their toe nails, you can file them instead.
As your baby’s feet are soft they are easily misshapen and therefore you should ensure they are not being distorted in any way. You can do this by:
- Keeping bed clothes loose fitting and light
- Do not restrict their feet in socks or baby grows that are too small
- Encourage your little one to exercise their feet by kicking or similar activities to develop their muscles
MY BABY’S FEET SEEM TO BE COLD, IS THAT NORMAL?
Babies will lose heat very quickly and so it’s vital you take care to insulate their feet with socks or bootees.
WHAT SOCKS ARE BEST FOR MY BABY?
Socks should always fit your baby’s feet well. Natural fibres such as cotton or wool are the best as they allow their feet to breathe. Try to avoid using 100% nylon socks as they will cause their feet to sweat.
SHOULD I BUY A BABY WALKER?
Baby walkers are not recommended by the NHS. Your baby will walk when they are ready to.
HOW TO CHOOSE YOUR CHILD'S FIRST PAIR OF SHOES
Choosing your baby’s first pair of shoes is super exciting! However, it’s important to make the right decision…
Babies’ feet are soft and precious, so you need to ensure that you choose shoes that are comfortable and suitable for the development of your little one’s tootsies.
Here’s everything you need to know about choosing the right first shoes for your little one…
WHEN SHOULD I BUY MY BABY’S FIRST PAIR OF SHOES?
Your little one is finally there – taking their first steps! While you’ll be bursting with pride, it’s important that you don’t rush out to buy their first pair of walking shoes just yet. Babies don’t need to wear shoes until they are walking outside. Until then, learning to walk in bare feet is the best option.
When you go to buy your baby’s first shoes, it’s vital that you get your baby’s feet measured by a professional. Many retailers ensure their staff have comprehensive training, so they can advise you on what’s best for your baby. Always get your toddler to walk in the shoes in the shop to make sure they are a correct fit before you buy.
WHAT TO LOOK OUT FOR IN YOUR BABY'S FIRST PAIR OF SHOES:
The shoes should be available in whole and half sizes and a variety of width fittings. They should be made from leather, which should be soft and flexible so they don’t rub. Look for lightweight, flexible non-slip soles which will help your baby grip the ground. Toes should still be wide and roomy, seams and edges soft, materials breathable and fastenings adjustable.
A good pair of first walking shoes can help your child gain balance and control as they walk and will give them confidence to keep going – for just a few steps more. Do remember that it’s still great for your baby to go barefoot as much as possible at home.
Your baby’s shoes should be checked every six to eight weeks to make sure they still fit.
Never buy second hand shoes, they will have been moulded to fit another child’s feet and won’t give the right support.
Need to find a good shoe shop? Look at the Children’s Foot Health Register which has a list of approved shoe fitters.
TIPS FOR BUYING YOUR BABY’S FIRST PAIR OF SHOES
Here are a few things to keep in mind…
- Once your baby is walking, now is the time to buy their first pair of shoes
- Make sure their feet are measured by a trained professional
- Your baby’s feet should be measured every 2-4 months to allow room for their feet to grow
- Try to choose shoes with natural linings and socks with a high natural fibre to allow them to breathe
- Ensure the shoes you purchase have a fastening.
- Never force your child’s feet into shoes without unfastening them.