Children’s feet are a vital part of their overall health and well-being. Healthy feet give kids the freedom to play, run, and jump, which is essential for their growth and development. To ensure that our children’s feet remain healthy, we must take good care of them.

Here are some must-dos to help your child’s feet stay strong and healthy.

1. Buy good shoes! Providing the right shoes is important to maintain good foot health in children. Choose shoes that fit well, have enough arch support, and give their toes enough space to move freely.
2. Get your kids moving! Encourage your children to participate in some form of physical activity daily. Running, walking, swimming, dancing, and playing sports provide countless benefits. Getting enough exercise is important for ensuring that the muscles, joints, and bones in the feet are strong and flexible.
3. Make sure your child has a well-rounded diet full of important vitamins and minerals, like calcium and vitamin D, which are important for healthy bones and feet. A healthy diet helps people grow and develop as a whole.
4. Regular foot checks are crucial for early detection of any potential issues.
5. Staying hydrated is vital for good circulation, which helps keep your feet healthy. Encourage your child to drink enough water daily so their body and feet stay moist.
6. Tell them not to walk barefoot in public places to avoid getting infections or hurting themselves. Teach them to wear and tie their shoes right so they don’t get blisters or hurt feet.
7. Talk to a podiatrist if you notice any worrying signs or your child keeps saying their feet hurt. A podiatrist is an expert in foot care and can give you good advice.
8. Stress the importance of letting the feet rest and heal after a busy day. With enough rest, your feet will be ready for the next day’s adventures, and you’ll be less likely to hurt yourself from overuse.

Teaching your child about foot care and healthy habits from an early age is important. If they learn the importance of these habits, they are more likely to carry them throughout their lives. This will help them maintain healthy feet and overall health in the long run.

If you need more tips on how to help your child with foot care, see our board-certified podiatrist, Dr. Brandon Macy, at Clark Podiatry Center. He can assess your child’s feet at New Jersey Children’s Foot Health Institute and find the best treatment for any concern you may have for your child’s feet. Make an appointment at our Clark, NJ office so we can keep your child walking.