Children's shoes for proper foot development

'As an expert of the exercise and movement of the human body and mum to two pairs of small feet, I want to emphasise how important it is that parents do not limit the natural development of children's feet and that we are so aware that we can recognise the most common development limitations that are hidden in our daily lives. Usually, these limitations are: classic children's shoes (with features such as a harder sole, narrow toe area, elevated foot arch, etc.), more walking on straight and hard surfaces (than natural) and non-movement (driving by means of transport or children's accessories at the expense of walking or moving a child).'

"Many studies by orthopaedics suggest the positive effects of barefoot walking, which allows the right formation of the foot arch, strengthening the foot muscles, improving coordination and balance. In tight and hard shoes, the feet cannot develop properly, so it is important that when choosing footwear we pay attention to comfort, let our fingers move freely - only then can our feet develop properly.'

'While walking barefoot, children keep their heads upright as they rely more on feeling underfoot and don't need extra control with their view. Barefoot walking thus promotes better balance and fewer falls. The barefooted motion also strengthens the muscles and connective tissue in the foot arch, improves proprioception and helps to get better posture. Since children do not have yet developed bones in the foot during growth, suitable footwear is all the more important to avoid degeneration, which can develop due to premature and excessive use of footwear. The most suitable footwear for children is, therefore, the one closest to the walking barefoot."