Should Babies Wear Shoes? Are They Necessary And When Should They Start?

As a parent, you want what's best for your baby. That includes making sure they're comfortable and protected. But when it comes to shoes, you may be wondering if they're really necessary for babies. The answer is: it depends.

Do Babies Need To Wear Shoes?

According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, babies don't need to wear shoes until they start walking. In fact, shoes can actually hinder their development. When babies are learning to walk, they need to be able to feel the ground beneath their feet. This helps them develop balance and coordination. Shoes can also make it harder for babies to crawl, which is an important milestone in their development.

Pros of Wearing Shoes:

Cons of Wearing Shoes:

When Should Babies Start Wearing Shoes?

If you do decide to put shoes on your baby, it's important to wait until they're at least 9 months old and walking regularly. Even then, they should only wear shoes for short periods of time, such as when they're going outside.

How to Choose the Right Shoes for Babies

When choosing shoes for your baby, it's important to keep the following in mind:

• Size: Shoes should fit snugly but not too tightly. You should be able to fit a finger between the back of the shoe and your baby's heel.
• Width: Shoes should be wide enough to accommodate your baby's toes.
• Flexibility: Shoes should be flexible so that they don't restrict your baby's movement.
• Material: Shoes should be made of breathable materials, such as leather or canvas.

Success Stories

• "My baby started wearing shoes when he was 9 months old and walking regularly. He loves them and they've helped him develop balance and coordination." - [Sarah, mother of a 1-year-old]
• "I waited until my baby was 12 months old to put shoes on her. She's now 18 months old and she loves wearing shoes. They protect her feet from the elements and they're also stylish." - [Emily, mother of a 18-month-old]
• "My baby has flat feet and shoes have helped to support his feet and prevent them from rolling in." - [Laura, mother of a 9-month-old]

Conclusion

So, should babies wear shoes? The answer is: it depends. If your baby is under 9 months old and not walking regularly, they don't need to wear shoes. However, if your baby is 9 months old and walking regularly, you can start putting them in shoes for short periods of time. When choosing shoes for your baby, be sure to keep the following in mind: size, width, flexibility, and material.