6 months ago
WASHINGTON, DC (WUSA) -- Parents are looking for the best bargains when shopping for their children's back to school needs.
But just as important as it is to shop for their clothes and supplies so is finding the right fit for their feet.
Dr. Harold Glickman shares some foot-friendly tips recommended by the American Podiatric Medical Association that all parents need to know before they buy their kids shoes.
He says to make sure the shoes make the grade give them the 1,2,3 Tests.
1. Look for a stiff heel. Press on both sides of the heel counter. It should not collapse.
2. Check toe flexibility. The shoe should bend with your child's toes. It should not be too stiff or bend too much in the toe box area.
3. Select a shoe with a rigid middle. Does the shoe twist? The shoe should never twist in the middle.
Take your child shoe shopping, and let them be a part of the process. It will help promote healthy foot habits down the road.
Children's feet change with age. Shoe and sock sizes may change every few months as a child grows.
Shoe's that don't fit properly can aggravate the feet. Always measure a child's feet before buying shoes, and watch for signs of irritation.
Never hand down footwear. Just because a shoe size fits one child comfortably doesn't mean it will fit another child the same way. Also, sharing shoes can spread fungi like athlete's feet and nail fungus.
Examine the heels. Children may wear through the heels of shoes quicker than outgrowing shoes themselves. Uneven heel wear can indicate a foot problem that should be checked by a podiatrist.
Always buy for the larger foot. Feet are seldom precisely the same size.
Buy shoes that do not need a "break-in" period. Shoes should be comfortable immediately. Also, make sure to have your child try on shoes or tights, if that's how they'll be worn.
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