How to Choose Baby's First Shoes

There's nothing quite as cute as shoes in miniature. Tiny high-tops and little Mary Janes tempt you at the store, but for your new walker, fit comes before fashion. When it's time to choose your baby's first shoes, there are a number of factors to keep in mind. Material, size and style all affect the ease with which your baby learns to walk. Always take off baby's shoes when you get home: gripping the bare floor with his toes helps your baby develop balance and muscle control.

Instructions

    • 1

      Wait to buy shoes until your baby starts to "cruise" -- meaning walk while holding onto furniture. Cute, but often clunky, footwear may interfere with your baby's development. Until she starts walking, it's best to keep her barefoot in the house and slip on a pair of socks or booties when you go out, according to WhatToExpect.com.

    • 2

      Choose the right material. Rubber or plastic shoes may be less expensive, but they are too stiff for a new walker and could make your baby's feet sweat excessively. Opt for canvas, cloth or leather material, all of which are porous and flexible.

    • 3

      Flex the sole. Like the rest of the shoe, the sole should be bendable to move with your little one's feet, says the Hospital for Special Surgery. Soft rubber or leather are good options. Look for shoes with ridges or a nonskid bottom so your baby won't slip.

    • 4

      Ask for measurements. Babies' feet are often different sizes, according to "Parenting" magazine. Have an attendant at the shoe store measure your child's feet and opt for a shoe in the larger size, if there are two different sizes.

    • 5

      Check the fit. Try the shoes on your baby while you are still at the store. You should be able to fit a thumb's width between your baby's big toe and the end of the shoe. The heel should be snug but shouldn't pinch her foot. Allow your little one to toddle for a while and watch her closely. If she looks uncomfortable or tries to take off the shoes, find another pair.

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