The weather is beautiful, the sun is shining, and the great outdoors calls for adventure. After being cooped up for the winter, children are excited to get outside. It can be a time of great fun for kids, but it also has its dangers. All the new activities can put plenty of strain and stress on your children’s little feet, but don’t worry; we have you covered. Let’s go over some basic tips to ensure your children’s feet stay safe and healthy this summer.

First, you need to pick the right shoes. Buying children’s shoes can be tricky. Wearing the proper footwear is vital for the correct development of your child’s foot structure and the body’s overall posture. If you have a toddler, try to find soft, flexible shoes with a toe box that has room for growth and space. Your child should be able to wiggle their toes freely. Children’s footwear should also have a stiff heel counter, a cushioned insole, and a built-in arch. Make sure it is flexible at the ball of the foot. In general, sneakers are an excellent choice, especially high-tops, which may help prevent injuries in children with weak or sprain-prone ankles.

Once you have proper footwear, you’re ready to get outside. Here are some easy children’s foot care tips to make sure your child’s feet stay healthy:

• Use sunscreen. Parents often remember to put sunscreen on their child’s arms, face, and legs but can easily forget about the feet. However, the skin on our feet can be even more susceptible to a burn since it spends so much of the year covered up. When exposed in sandals or for a day at the pool or beach, always apply a water-resistant sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher to your children’s feet. Remember to reapply every few hours and immediately after swimming.
• Opt for socks! Kids should wear socks whenever possible since they can absorb sweat and create a blister-preventing barrier between the shoe and the skin.
• Avoid flip-flops. Flip-flops can slip off easily, causing kids’ feet to grip unnaturally to keep them on, and this can cause cramps and discomfort. They also don’t protect the toes, unlike more supportive sandals.

Now you’re ready for summer, have fun!

Contact a specialist right away if you do find an issue or are experiencing any pain or discomfort. Dr. Ryan L. D’Amico, Dr. Donal M. Erickson, Dr. Keith Sherman, and their staff will help you diagnose and treat your foot or ankle condition. Call Syracuse Podiatry, located in East Syracuse, New York, for more tips and expert advice. Call 315-446-3668 or make an appointment online today.