How Fast Do Toddler Feet Grow And Why It Matters
Unlike horses and pigs, human babies can’t stand on their own when they are newly delivered. So for the first few months, babies are carried by their parents.
So it’s a momentous moment to see babies walk. It’s when the feet, legs, hip, and core can finally support the infant’s weight. It takes plenty of strength and coordination for this to happen.
Generously speaking, babies can start walking around 9 to 18 months. Some babies may develop motor skills earlier than others. Some might be late bloomers and require more training from parents.
But once babies start walking, it’s only a matter of time until they start running and jumping. Pretty soon, they’ll carry this skill into their toddlerhood.
It’s normal for parents to start wondering when to give their little ones a pair of shoes. During this stage, toddlers start to grow rapidly, and it’s hard to keep up. Will shoe size even matter when it changes every month?
Some Facts About Toddler Feet
The feet are a special part of the body that does not get a lot of attention. People often gloss over just how important foot development is.
Inside the feet are a collection of 26 different bones. For toddlers, those bones are not yet fully developed. In fact, they act more like cartilages rather than fully realized bones.
The structure of the feet is usually developed when toddlers are 2 years old. However, the feet continue to grow and change. They won’t be completely developed and hardened until children are around 13 years of age.
The development of children’s feet can heavily influence their adult years. That’s why taking care of their feet at a young age is important. Improper care can hinder certain motor skills and abilities.
Shoes play a big role in the growth of children. They aren’t just a fashion statement. Shoes protect and shape children’s feet.
But shoes aren’t necessary when babies first start walking. Shoes and socks can restrict the growth of children’s feet and motor skills. Once babies have mastered walking around, shoes can then come into the picture.
But here’s the thing: Buying shoes for toddlers can be hectic because of size. Shoes that fit perfectly when first bought can become too small after a month.
So what gives? Do toddlers’ feet grow overnight?
How Fast Do toddler Feet Grow
Unlike adults, babies’ and toddlers’ feet continuously grow. In fact, the younger they are, the faster their feet grow.
The growth depends heavily on age. Children between 1 and 3 are expected to have an average growth of 1.5 mm per month. This slows down to 1 mm per month between the ages of 3 and 6. Finally, expect less than 1 mm per month between ages 6 to 10.
In short, the older they get, the slower the speed becomes. When children have reached their pre-teens, their feet have reached their final size.
But for the time being, parents will be buying a lot of shoes for a growing toddler.
Why Does Size Matter?
It’s tempting to buy one or two pairs of shoes per year. Shoes can be an expensive investment. And if toddlers aren’t complaining, why change?
Feet are an integral part of the human body. Often we hear adults complaining about foot problems and deformities. Problems in adulthood can be traced back to childhood with ill-fitted and tight shoes.
Shoe size matters. Giving toddlers shoes that are too small or too big can greatly affect them.
Shoes that are too tight can reduce blood flow and make growth restricted. Small shoes can also leave nasty and painful blisters. Plus, tiny shoes can lead to deformed toes and heels.
Meanwhile, it’s also important to avoid shoes that are too big. Big shoes can cause chafing and blisters. They can also be difficult to carry, especially when running and climbing.
Doctors recommend that toddlers have their feet measured at least every three months. It’s also a good idea to change their shoes every 3-4 months.
Look Out For Style and Quality As Well
Parents shouldn’t only look out for shoes that fit their kids. The style, material, and design matter as well.
Toddlers’ shoes must be able to support their movement, balance, and coordination. Toddlers will be moving a lot during this stage. They will need durable shoes that are light and stable.
It’s also a good idea to look for shoes that have some form of arc support. Toddlers’ feet may appear to lack an arc underneath them. This gives the illusion of flat feet.
But the arc in the feet is padded with “fat.” This fat will later disappear when they turn older. However, even with the padding, toddlers still need shoes with arc support for comfort.
And no, secondhand shoes are off the table. Shoes take shape with their owner’s feet. Secondhand shoes may fit their first owner but will be uncomfortable for their second one.
In short, parents must look for shoes that support their toddlers’ natural size and shape. Shoes should also be durable and still comfortable to wear.
Conclusion
It is a big moment to see your little ones turn from babies into toddlers. The ability to walk is a big milestone worth celebrating. And what better way to celebrate is to buy new shoes!
But toddler shoes are a big investment for many reasons. Not only will parents want a nice, fashionable pair of shoes. They also need to consider things like size, design, and durability.
Size plays a major role in buying shoes. Buying shoes that are too big or too small can heavily affect toddlers’ development. Buying the right pair of shoes is crucial for healthy feet.
Toddlers’ feet grow very quickly every month. Parents can expect somewhere between 1 to 1.5 mm per month of growth. That’s why parents need to buy around 3 to 4 shoes every year.
Shoes are a big investment for parents, especially for growing toddlers. It might feel scary for the pocket, but quality shoes shouldn’t be expensive.
A simple but durable pair with the right size and shape will go a long way. Very soon, your toddler will be having marathons around the block.
