HOW MUCH TO TODDLERS FEET GROW IN A YEAR?

How Much Do Toddler Feet Grow in a Year?

One day they're a tiny, squishy bundle in our arms, and the next they're stomping around the house, their tiny feet pounding the floor with each step. But just how much do toddler feet grow in a year? And what does this mean for their foot health? Let me help you answer those questions and provide some helpful tips on maintaining foot health for growing kids.

Understanding Toddler Foot Growth...

The rate at which a toddler's feet grow can vary significantly from one child to
another. However, on average, you can expect your toddler's feet to grow
approximately one to one and a half shoe sizes each year until they reach school age. However, it's important to note that while this is an average figure, every child is unique and may not follow this exact pattern of growth. Some toddlers may experience spurts of rapid growth followed by periods of slower development, while others may grow steadily over time. As parents you will generally notice this... wearing the same shoes for some time before a growth spurt will see them needing new shoes urgently! All our shoes and boots come with a removable midsole that increases the fit, allowing them to be worn for longer, which means you will always be able to get 3-4 extra months wear out of them!

The Importance of Proper Footwear...

With such rapid growth occurring during these early years, ensuring your child has
appropriate footwear is crucial for maintaining good foot health. Shoes that are too
small can not only cause discomfort but potentially lead to long-term damage such as ingrown toenails or deformities.

When shopping for shoes for your growing toddler, consider the following:
● Always measure their feet before buying new shoes.
● Look for shoes with flexible soles that allow natural foot movement.
● Make sure there is enough width at the toe to allow the feet to spread naturally
● Choose shoes with breathable material to prevent sweaty and smelly feet.
● Ensure there is enough growth room at the front of the shoe (about half a thumbnail) for toes to have space to grow into.

Regularly checking your toddlers shoe size and replacing outgrown footwear
promptly can help prevent potential foot problems and ensure your child's comfort.

Foot Health for Growing Kids and What to Watch Out For...
While foot growth is a normal part of your toddler's development, there are certain
signs that may indicate potential foot health issues. These include:
- Complaints of pain or discomfort in their feet.
- Unusual walking patterns, such as in-toeing or out-toeing.
- Frequent tripping or falling.
- Redness, swelling, or other visible signs of irritation.

If you notice any of these signs, you should definitely consult a pediatric podiatrist who can provide a thorough examination and recommend appropriate treatment if
necessary. Sometimes small insoles can be provided to help regular development (these can work very well with out shoes and boots and the insoles can be removed!)

Promoting Healthy Foot Growth

Beyond ensuring proper footwear, there are several other ways you can promote
healthy foot growth in your toddler.
1. Encourage Barefoot Play: Allowing your child to play barefoot at home can help
strengthen the muscles in their feet and improve balance and coordination. However, ensure the play area is safe and free from sharp objects that could cause injury.
2. Regular Foot Checks: Regularly inspect your child's feet for any signs of issues
such as blisters, warts, cuts, or infections.
3. Healthy Diet: A balanced diet rich in calcium and vitamin D can support healthy
bone growth in your child's feet.
4. Physical Activity: Encourage regular physical activity to promote overall health
and well-being, including foot health.

It's not just about how quickly a toddler's feet grow, its about prioritising well made, podiatrist approved shoes (like ours!), making sure they fit well and monitoring their changing shoe size... our shoeboxes have a handy measuring chart inside to keep an eye on this.

Remember that every child is unique; what works for one may not work for another.

If you have any questions regarding fitting shoes, you can reach us on help@zigandstar.com