As the summer holidays come to an end, many parents are busy getting school uniforms, stationery, and lunchboxes ready. But one thing that often gets missed is foot care. After weeks of running around barefoot or in sandals, children’s feet might need a little extra attention before stepping back into school shoes.
Here are some simple tips to help keep your child’s feet healthy, pain-free, and ready for the school year ahead.
1. Check Their Shoes Fit Properly
Children’s feet grow quickly—sometimes by a whole shoe size over the summer. Wearing shoes that are too tight or too loose can cause problems like blisters, foot pain, ingrown toenails or even changes in how they walk.
Tip: Measure both feet before buying new shoes and make sure there’s about a thumb’s width of space between the longest toe and the end of the shoe.
2. Look for Supportive School Shoes
Not all shoes give the support growing feet need. Flat or flimsy shoes can lead to sore feet and legs, especially after long days at school.
Tip:Â Choose shoes with a firm sole, a secure fastening (like laces or Velcro), and a little cushioning under the heel and arch.
3. Keep Toenails Trimmed
Long toenails can press against the front of the shoe, causing pain or even ingrown nails.
Tip:Â Trim toenails straight across and not too short. This helps prevent discomfort and infections.
4. Let Feet Breathe
After wearing closed shoes all day, feet can get hot and sweaty, which may lead to fungal infections like athlete’s foot.
Tip:Â Encourage your child to take their shoes off when they get home and let their feet air out. Clean socks and breathable materials (like leather or mesh) help too.
Our Shoe Recommendations
Our podiatrists have found some shoes that might be suitable for school.
https://www.kickers.co.uk/adult-womens-kick-lo-brogue-leather-black/13163966.html
When to See a Podiatrist
If your child complains of foot pain, touches their nails a lot, or you notice anything unusual  —don’t wait. A podiatrist can check their feet, suggest simple treatments, and help keep them active and pain-free.
With just a few small steps, you can make sure your child is ready to walk, run, and play through the new school year without foot pain holding them back.
