Choosing the right shoe - Willow & Ko
Choosing the Right Shoes for Your Growing Baby: Size and Benefits of Soft Soles
As parents, we often get caught up in the flurry of milestones that our children cross, from their first smile to their first words. However, one key aspect of your baby's development that you shouldn't overlook is their foot health. In this blog post, we're going to guide you through determining your baby's shoe size and explain why soft sole shoes are beneficial for your baby's growth.
Babies' feet grow rapidly, and finding the right shoe size is crucial for their comfort and proper development. Here are a few steps to help you determine your baby's shoe size:
Understanding Your Baby's Shoe Size
First things first: how do you determine your baby's shoe size? While each baby grows at a different pace, there are some general guidelines you can follow:
- 0-6 months: Typically, babies in this age range wear a size 0-2 (our shoe sizing starts at size 2).
- 6-12 months: Babies are usually in sizes 3-4 during this period.
- 12-24 months (Toddlers): Shoe sizes for this age range usually vary from 4-7.
Remember, these are general guidelines, and your baby may fall above or below these. To ensure you get an accurate measurement you can do the following:
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Measure Their Feet: Use a soft measuring tape or a piece of string to measure the length of your baby's foot from heel to toe. Make sure to measure both feet, as they may differ in size. You can have your child stand on a piece of paper and mark their heel and the tip of their longest toe, then measure this distance in centermetres. Use this measurement against the shoe size chart provided for an accurate fit.
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Consider Growth Room: Allow a little extra room for growth when choosing shoes for your baby. Aim for about 1cm (or a thumb's width) of space between their longest toe and the tip of the shoe.
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Try Them On: When trying shoes on your baby, ensure a comfortable fit without any tightness or pressure points. Velcro allows us to accommodate different foot shapes.
Why Choose Soft Sole Shoes for Babies and Young Toddlers?
The Benefits of Soft Sole Shoes for Babies and Young Toddlers: Soft sole shoes, especially in the early stages of walking, offer several benefits for your baby's developing feet. Let's explore a few key advantages.
- Natural Foot Development: Soft sole shoes mimic the barefoot experience, allowing your baby's feet to move and flex naturally. This promotes proper muscle and bone development, contributing to better balance and coordination.
- Sensory Stimulation: The soft and flexible materials of these shoes provide sensory feedback to your baby's feet, enhancing their awareness of their surroundings and improving their overall sensory development.
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Improved Balance: The flexibility of soft sole shoes allows your baby's feet to feel the ground beneath them, aiding in developing a sense of balance and stability. This is crucial during their early walking stages.
- Comfort: Soft sole shoes are often made of breathable material, providing comfort and preventing sweat and odour.
Choosing the right shoes for your growing baby goes beyond style; it directly impacts their comfort, development, and overall foot health. By determining their shoe size accurately and opting for soft sole shoes, you provide a solid foundation for their early steps.
Remember, quality should never be compromised when it comes to your child's shoes. Always choose shoes, like ours, that are designed with your baby's comfort and development in mind. For any queries or further guidance, feel free to reach out to us.
(Note: This is a general guide, and it's recommended to consult with a paediatrician or a professional shoe fitter for personalised advice based on your baby's unique needs.)
Happy parenting!