What are sandals? Why is this important for a child’s development?

Buying first step shoes for babies is a concern for most parents. This is one of the best proofs that a child is really developing and has reached an important milestone. On the other hand, parents should be very careful and selective when buying first step shoes. Because, like all the organs of a baby, the feet are still in the developmental stage. Choosing the wrong footwear can negatively affect the health of the foot in the long run, as well as delay the development of a child’s sensorimotor skills and ability to balance. For this reason, experts argue that footwear suitable for the physiology of the foot should be preferred. At this moment, we come across sandals. So what are sandals and why are they important for babies?

What are sandals?

Barefoot is the English word for bare feet. Sandals, on the other hand, are comfortable shoes that make you feel like you’re walking barefoot and that suits the physiology of your foot. This shoe differs from the standard shoe in some ways. For example, sandals have a wider front design. In this case, since the baby’s fingers will be free, over time he will develop the ability to balance. In addition, the sole of the sandals is thinner and more flexible. It increases the child’s awareness and helps develop sensorimotor skills. Because of all these features, sandals are considered the best footwear option for babies. Let’s take a closer look at why you should choose sandals for your baby.

Why are sandals important for a child’s development?

Research shows that toddlers should go barefoot whenever possible. Because walking barefoot not only supports infants’ foot development, but also helps to increase their awareness, sensorimotor skills and balance. However, seasonal conditions or reasons such as the streets are not very safe for bare feet, of course, make you wear shoes outside the home. At this point, we are faced with sandals that are suitable for the physiology of the foot and do not adversely affect the development of the baby. Here are 3 important benefits of sandals for child development…

1. Provides optimal foot development

In the first months after birth, the bones of the feet of babies are soft. As a child grows, his bones harden; Joints, ligaments and muscles develop. Wearing tight, stiff and inflexible shoes during this period will negatively affect the development of the foot. Because their feet may develop to fit the shape of the shoe rather than naturally. Therefore, experts argue that sandals that support the natural development of the foot outside the home should be preferred.

2. Supports sensory motor development

There are about 200,000 nerve endings on the sole of the foot. This gives children the opportunity to gain insight into their body and environment even before they learn to walk. For example, walking barefoot on a bed, hardwood floor, stroller or lap allows the child to recognize different textures and temperatures. Thus, their sensorimotor development is supported and it is easier for the baby to navigate what is happening around him. The sandals also have a thin, flexible and lightweight design that allows the little one to feel the texture of the ground without getting hurt.

3. Helps develop balance abilities

Most standard children’s shoes have a tight and narrow toe. This makes it difficult for children to keep their balance, as it prevents the toes from spreading. A distinctive feature of sandals is the widest possible front part of the shoe. In this case, since the toes will be free, the child’s ability to balance will develop just in time.

You may also be interested in this content:

5 Health Benefits of Walking Barefoot in Nature

Source: 1