when purchasing baby's first shoes

My wonderful granddaughter started to walk this fall. I have watched her go from rolling to walking in what seems like a blink. Now, I watch with delight as she toddles round the house, up and down stairs and struggles to stay upright while walking within the grass. Truly it has been a blessing to be so close which i get to be present for all her growth and changes.
When my daughter started to walk and needed her first pair of shoes, there have been stores nearby that specialized in children's shoes and helping new parents make the best purchase. Since there's not a children's specialty shoe store nearby, my daughter did some internet research to find out the when and how of making this important first purchase. Listed here are 3 keys items to consider when purchasing baby's first shoes.
1.) When is it time to place walking shoes on her little feet? When your baby starts taking those first steps, it is usually inside. Many babies will master the art of staying upright inside their home before they venture outdoors with their new learned skill. It is best for the baby to obtain the art of walking down before you place shoes on their feet. It's easier for them to walk, stand and maintain their balance when they are barefoot. Allowing them to first learn to use both their foot and toes muscles unrestricted by shoes provides them with a strong sense of balance. Time to put shoes on their feet is when you decide to take them outside for walking practice.
2.) What materials are best? Baby's first shoes should be porous enough so that their feet can breath and not become all wet and stinky with sweat. A soft canvas, cloth or leather shoe will allow their feet to breath. Flexibility in baby's walking shoes is a must. A good test would be to see how easily you are able to roll the shoe up into a ball. It is important the shoe have enough flex so your baby can continue to use his or her feet properly for balance. Materials that don't restrict or hinder your child's movement are best for a first shoe purchase.
3.) How should it fit? Like everything about your baby, their foot size and foot shape will change lightning fast. This is actually the time to buy shoes that fit property and never something they will grow into. There is no breaking in period for baby shoes because they are likely to grow out of their first pair of shoes before they wear them out. You should be able to slip the shoes on and off with ease. The shape from the shoe should match the shape of the baby's foot. When they stand within their new shoes, their longest toe ought to be about a thumb's width from the tip of the shoe and the back of the shoe should fit the heel snugly, however it should be comfortable. You do not want their foot to slide from the shoe too easily, nor would you like it to pinch when you're putting the shoe on. Try on both shoes, just like you, one foot will be just a little larger & longer compared to other.
There are lots of things to bear in mind when making this first shoe purchase. Remember to watch your baby's response because they try on various shoes. This is not time to become trendy however it may be the time to be practical. Purchase the baby shoe that provides for enough free movement and does not hinder your child's ability to walk easily or restrict their foot's development.