Children's Feet

Children's feet differ from adults because they are not fully formed yet.  In fact at 6 months the foot is still most cartilage, the last bone doesn't begin to form until about 3 years old.

As children begin walking they develop at different stages, which is entirely normal. When a child begins to first walk shoes are not necessary inside, it's a good idea also to allow babies to go barefoot to let the foot grow normally and promote the action of toes.

Sometimes children will walk with their feet pointed outward, or inward or on their toes. In most cases the child will out grow these styles of walking however if the pattern persists, or if you have concerns you should take your child to see a podiatrist.

Arch development will begin to stabilise around six or seven years of age.

Children's feet grow rapidly and it's important to do regular size checks to ensure shoes are fitted correctly.

It is also advisable to make a check up with a podiatrist if you notice:

- uneven shoe wear

- any skin rashes, hard skin lumps or bumps on your child's feet

- your child constantly tripping or falling.