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Buying Toddler Shoes
Buying Toddler Shoes
 One
of the biggest events in your baby’s young life is their first
pair of shoes. Some people even have the first shoes set in bronze
to commemorate the time. As your little one grows you will quickly
learn that their feet can grow as much as a full size every three
months. An exact number hasn’t ever been given, but our best
guess is that A LOT of shoes are bought throughout your tots first
years. To make sure you get the most for your money we have compiled
some tips to make this easier.
1. Have your toddler's feet measured on a regular
basis at a shoe store that specializes in toddler's shoes. Toddlers
grow fast, and shoe sizes can change from month to month. Really
good salespeople can spot evasive maneuvers like scrunched up toes,
and know how to woo a reluctant tot out of a parent's lap. Toys
and play areas are added bonuses.
2. Head to discount stores, such as Payless ShoeSource,
Target and Kmart, which are also great sources for shoes that get
limited wear, such as dress shoes. If you're clear about your toddler's
shoe size, you can save a bundle at these discounters. However,
many of these stores don't carry wide or narrow shoes.
3. Have your toddler try both shoes on. Shoes
vary in fit, even within the same brand. Toes should have a 1/2-inch
(1-cm) clearance, but not much more. Getting one size larger than
their foot is typical. Watch your toddler walk and make sure that
the heels don't slip out. If a heel is too wide but the rest of
the shoe fits, try heel pads (available at some shoe stores and
drugstores).
4. Invest in a good pair of sneakers that your
toddler can wear every day. This pair will take a pounding, so look
for quality. Leather holds up better than vinyl, and stitching lasts
longer than glue.
5. Take advantage of Velcro fasteners. At some
point, though, all toddlers need to learn to tie shoelaces, so get your
preschool-age toddler at least one pair that ties.
6. For summer months or warm climates, purchase
cheap canvas sneakers for playing in the sand box, jumping in puddles
or going in the creek. Velcro-strapped sandals are great for tender
feet that want to have wet summertime fun.
7. Buy rain and winter boots a size or two bigger.
Toddlers can wear heavier or even doubled socks. Most retailers won't
restock boots, even if they sell out of a size, until the following
year's season. Be aware that most rain boots don't come in wide
sizes; you may have to go up in size to get them wide enough.
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