The structure of the human body is primarily dependent on our two feet, and built up in a way that the foot is linked to the leg and the upper body by muscles and ligaments. Just as a building needs good basic foundation to avoid the entire structure collapsing, the right foundation for healthy children’s feet is also important as it has an impact on the upper body. Children love being active: walking, running and jumping, and healthy feet will help them do all of that with ease.

Your pre-school child is growing up fast and getting out and about more now, involved in all sorts of activities. But the bones in their feet are still forming, so correctly fitted footwear is still really important.

It’s important not to compromise on fit, particularly in the forefoot to ensure the foot’s natural structure is not constricted by their footwear during this important developmental stage. These restrictions may compromise locomotion and lead to a less natural gait cycle development and may compromised formation of the bones, muscles and ligaments that links the body together. Your child has more controlled movements now and has probably mastered walking, running, skipping, hopping and jumping. Activities that require co-ordination are good now and you can try combining different skills instead of just one action.

Why is it essential to pay attention to kids’ healthy feet development? Because it:

• supports good spinal alignment and gait pattern development
• has an effect on personality (walking correctly and straight up, can build their confidence)
• provides a good foundation for sport and other activities.

“Most foot problems, including poor gait patterns and body alignment, are caused by wearing ill-fitting shoes from a young age.”