Shoes or no shoes?

[Georgi]

I caught up with a friend last week who has a 16month old boy. She was mortified to see that I had not taken any shoes for DS to wear. She told me it was very important for kids to wear good quality shoes from 6 weeks after they commence walking. Apparently a doctor told her this.

I had read in numerous places that it is unnecessary for them to wear shoes at this age, in fact, it is better for them not to.

Please share your thoughts with me.

TIA

[Amaunet]

I had little shoes on DS when I went to visit my MCHN and she specifically told me NOT to put shoes on him when he started to walk/stand

[Visitor7]

I was told it's best that they learn to walk without shoes. I don't usually have shoes on Emily. Maybe if we're going out and she'll be in the pram the whole time. She doesn't like to walk with them.

[rufalina]

From what I understand, shoes are not necessary at all. It is better for walking and development for kids to be able to feel with their feet.

But, if you do want shoes, then wait for about 6 weeks after they start walking and get proper shoes fitted professionally, so you get a good fit. Start with a more flexible sole, and gradually move up to a harder sole. I get his feet checked every couple of months for size...

I got DS shoes a couple of months after he started walking, with a softish sole, as he needed them for daycare, but I rip his shoes of as soon as I get him home and we spend as much time as possible barefoot.

[Tan2705]

DS at 17 months will not sit in a pram without throwing a hissy fit.. because he walks everywhere (runs must of the time) and it's soooo hot up here there is no way I would want him walking on the footpaths or bitumen (SP?) without shoes.. he'd end up scalding the soles of his feet! He does however get fitted probably - and is forever growing out of shoes - he is in a size 8 already

[luna moth]

IF weather or safety conditions require it, then yes, put shoes on.

But otherwise they should go shoe-less as much as possible, especially while learning!

[Georgi]

Thanks for your replies. Huh, just as I expected. I thought I better check just incase I had it wrong.

Thanks again