Children will be thrilled to know they’ve made it halfway through the school year. Their shoes have also made it through half the year, and it may be time for a new pair.

Children’s feet can grow up to two sizes in six months. If you suspect your children’s growth has made their shoes too tight, check for blisters, corns and calluses on the toes, blisters on the back of the heels or ingrown toenails.

Check the shoes for wear and tear, too. Shoes lose their shock absorption over time.

If it’s time to buy new shoes, choose a pair that has a little, but not too much, room for growth. Shoot for about a finger’s width of space between your child’s big toe and the front of the shoe. Don’t buy shoes too big, however. Oversized shoes cause the foot to slide forward, putting pressure on the toes.

Be sure the shoes have a toe box wide enough to accommodate your child’s feet, adequate cushioning and shock absorption. Children with flat feet also need shoes that provide arch support.

If your child is having trouble walking or running or is experiencing foot pain despite properly fitting shoes, call our office for a checkup.