Check to ensure that the areas your toddler likes to walk around in are clean and free from hazards. Sweep or vacuum the floor every couple of days to keep the floor clean.
Don’t allow your toddler to walk outside in thick socks as these will not protect their feet from things like sharp items or moisture.
Start with lightweight slippers that the child will barely notice on their feet. Encourage them to wear these for 1 hour, then 2 hours and so on. Once your toddler gets used to the feeling of their feet being covered up, repeat the process again, but this time with shoes.
When your toddler tries a pair on, you should be able to fit your index finger between their heel and the back of the shoe. If you can’t, the shoes are probably too small. You should also check the width off the shoe. If the shoe is wide enough, you should be able to get it on your toddler’s foot without too much effort or resistance. Look for shoes with strong Velcro or laces to ensure that they will stay put on your toddler’s feet.
Try saying something like, “If you don’t wear shoes when you walk outside, you might step on something sharp and hurt your feet. ” Or, you might say, “It’s really cold outside! You’ll need your shoes to keep your feet warm. ”
Try saying something like, “Wow! You look so grown up in your big kid shoes!” Or, you could say, “Great job wearing your shoes today, buddy!”
Explain that the same rules apply to everyone. Try saying something like, “If mommy’s wearing shoes, you need to wear them, too. ”
If your toddler does throw a tantrum about putting on shoes, don’t show that it bothers you. If you have someone around to help you, then you might also ask them to help you distract your toddler.
If the child complains and attempts to remove their shoes during an outing, try saying something like, “Big kids have to wear their shoes so they can go out and do fun things. ” Or, you might say, “If you take off your shoes, we can’t go to the playground. ” When you’re out at the playground or supermarket, point to other children who are wearing their shoes and say something like “Look at that good girl over there wearing her shoes!”
Heavy, thick-soled shoes can prevent the child from moving normally. Opt for shoes with flexible soles.
Avoid flip-flops, sandals, and Crocs since these don’t provide enough stability for a toddler’s feet. They may also encourage toe-gripping, which could lead to foot deformities.
Once you remove the shoes, check your child’s feet for any marks, as this could indicate that the shoe was pinching their foot and is too small.
