As the dog days of summer start to dwindle, parents everywhere will scramble to outfit their children for back-to-school. Stores will be inundated with moms and dads in search of the latest fads and fashions for their little ones, and shoes are sure to top the list.
Children’s feet change rapidly as they age, so it may be necessary to revisit the shoe store every few months. The American Podiatric Medical Association provides the following tips for parents to ensure the shoes they buy make the grade:
* It’s important to measure a child’s foot before buying; feet are seldom the exact same size, and ill-fitting shoes can be aggravating. Be sure to buy for the larger foot.
* Shop in the afternoon. Feet tend to swell later in the day, so it’s best to be fitted during this time to accommodate slight changes in foot size.
* Select shoes that are comfortable immediately. Don’t buy shoes that require a “break-in” period.
* Look for a stiff heel. Press on both sides of the shoe’s heel; it shouldn’t collapse.
* Check the shoe’s toe flexibility. The shoe should bend with your...