| Before you join the mad rush of buying | | | | squeeze the toes should be avoided. The child should |
| back-to-school shoes - here is a checklist | | | | be able to wriggle toes comfortably while wearing |
| recommended by Chiropodists and Podiatrists to | | | | them. |
| select the best options for your child. | | | | 5. It should fit the heel area exactly, and not be tight |
| 1. New shoes should be roughly one finger's width | | | | or loose. |
| longer than the longest toe of your child. For this | | | | 6. Maximum recommended heel height is 4 cms, |
| purpose, measure both feet as the lengths may vary. | | | | lesser for younger children. |
| Different manufacturers have differences in | | | | 7. Check that it should be airy to prevent bacteria |
| measuring, so get your child's foot measured in every | | | | and odor build up. |
| shop that you visit. | | | | 8. Always try on shoes along with the socks intended |
| 2. Children's boots should have laces, Velcro | | | | to be used with them. This gives a clearer idea about |
| fastenings or straps which secure the foot to the | | | | the final fit. |
| shoe. It is better to avoid slip on boots as these may | | | | 9. Trainer shoes are sometimes designed for |
| come off while the child is running, causing a | | | | particular sports. Avoid these specific ones as these |
| misbalance. Ballet style pumps for little girls could have | | | | might not be comfortable for all day wear. |
| the same problem and are not recommended for | | | | 10. Check your child's shoe regularly for severe wear |
| daily wear. Clogs that provide a firm grip are | | | | on the inside as well as the outside. Check if the heel |
| acceptable. Little girls can opt for shoes such as | | | | area is broken or bulging inside or outside. |
| Dansko Clogs (Why Dansko shoes and clogs are | | | | 11. Blisters and sores may sometimes develop with |
| comfortable for your feet) for fashion coupled with | | | | new shoes. As the foot area remains covered and |
| comfort. | | | | moist for most part of the day, these are potential |
| 3. The inner portion, especially at the area of the | | | | growth sites for infections and bacteria. Treat |
| arch, should provide firm support without being too | | | | infections immediately with an antiseptic and |
| hard. | | | | appropriate dressing. |
| 4. Boots which are tapering towards the toes, or | | | | |