As summer comes to and end, children will be heading back to school come September.
Most parents focus on school supplies, back packs, and transportation. An important part of back to school preparation, that is often overlooked, is your child’s feet.
Children spend varying amounts of time on their feet during the school day. Some stay after school for sports and other physical activities, while others may spend extended periods standing during classes such as science labs. It is of importance that the shoes that your child wears is comfortable, well fitted, and aligned with the expected activity level. We provide you a concise checklist of items to check off when it comes to foot care
- Check your child’s shoe size before the school year starts. Make sure there is adequate room in the toe box.
- Replace shoes that are worn out or no longer fit properly.
- Choose activity-appropriate footwear for sports.
- Make sure cleats fit comfortably and are not too tight.
- Avoid wearing cleats for extended periods outside of sports.
- Use moisture-wicking socks and change them daily.
- Encourage children to wear sandals or shower shoes in communal locker rooms.
- Check feet regularly for blisters, calluses, warts, or areas of irritation.
- Encourage stretching and a gradual return to sports after summer break.
- Don’t ignore persistent foot, heel, or ankle pain.
- Schedule a podiatric evaluation for ongoing pain or concerning foot lesions.
Advanced Foot Care of Long Island is here to help keep your child’s feet healthy and ready for every step, practice, and game.
