Many people wonder when they should by their kid’s first shoes. There are many high quality shoes for toddler on the market today. When should you buy shoes for your toddler? You should buy your baby’s first shoes when she learns to walk. Many doctors believe that children’s fee develop best if they learn how to walk while barefoot. You can buy soft booties to keep their feet warm. Once they are walking consistently it is time for the first pair of shoes. Take your child to a store that sells high quality shoes for kids, and have their feet measured. The salespeople at these types of stores are experienced in fitting shoes for toddlers, so they will have the patience and knowledge you need to get good quality shoes without having a toddler meltdown right in the store.
You may be tempted to buy shoes that your child can grow into. This is a bad idea, because shoes that are too big can cause new walkers to trip. Make sure the soles of the shoes are soft so that the baby can feel the floor.
The real key to buying shoes for kids is keeping up with their fast growing little tootsies. Have your child’s feel measured frequently. You may need new shoes as soon as once a month, so make sure you are getting their feet measured by qualified people. If money is an issue, don’t buy a bunch of shoes. They will outgrow them before you have a chance to get your money’s worth. Instead, buy one quality pair at a time. However, if you want to have several pairs, have your child’s feet measured at the specialty shoe store, then go to discount stores, like Wal-Mart and Payless Shoes, and stock up on the shoes in the correct size. However, if you child needs a narrow or wide shoe, you may be stuck getting them at the specialty store.
One of the most important pairs of shoes for kids you will buy is a pair of sneakers. Buy a high quality pair, as these will be worn almost every day. Some things to look for are leather uppers and stitching rather than glue for binding. Your child is not going to learn how to tie with their first pair of sneakers, so take advantage of Velcro. Eventually you will need to buy some shoes with laces, though.
One exception to the rule about not buying shoes to big is boots. Both rain boots and winter boots are not restocked once they sell out for the season. If your child grows while still needing the boots, you will be out of luck. You can always throw extra socks on their feet to make up for the extra room. Besides, it will keep their feet warmer too!
Check your child’s feet for blisters. If you find some, the shoes do not fit properly. It is time to get your child re-measured. Even shoes that are too big can cause blisters if they rub on the feet. Buying the proper fit shoes is essential for your child’s comfort.