Healthy feet are important for a child’s overall development, balance, and mobility. Teaching kids proper foot care from an early age helps them establish habits that will benefit them for life. With a few simple routines, parents can help children keep their feet clean and comfortable.
Wash Feet Daily
Both the CDC and NHS recommend washing feet daily with soap and water. Feet have more sweat glands per square centimeter than any other body part, which creates a warm, moist environment where bacteria and fungi thrive.
After washing, make sure your child dries their feet thoroughly. This step helps prevent fungal infections such as athlete’s foot, which often starts in damp areas between the toes.
Choose the Right Shoes and Socks
Properly fitting shoes are key to supporting healthy foot growth. They should be comfortable, have a wide toe-box, and provide support. Tight shoes exacerbate conditions like bunions, hammertoes, and ingrown toenails. Loose ones, meanwhile, cause friction and increase the risk of blisters and calluses.
Socks should be clean, dry, and made from breathable materials to prevent excess moisture. Change them if they become damp from sweat, sports, or outdoor play.
Trim Toenails Correctly
Toenails should be trimmed straight across and not too short. Cutting nails too close to the skin or rounding the edges can lead to ingrown toenails, which can be painful and prone to infection.
Go Barefoot at Home
When it’s safe to do so indoors, letting kids go barefoot at home can help strengthen foot muscles, improve balance, and promote natural movement. It also allows toes to spread and grip, which supports healthy arch development. However, shoes should be worn in public areas or outdoors to protect against injury and infection.
Watch for Signs of Problems
Check feet regularly for redness, swelling, blisters, cuts, peeling skin, and other concerns. If your child complains of ongoing pain, limping, or other unusual symptoms, see a podiatrist for evaluation. Early treatment can prevent more serious issues.
See a Specialist at The Foot & Ankle Center
If your child is experiencing foot or ankle pain, make an appointment with The Foot & Ankle Center! Since 1989, our board-certified podiatrists have been proud to deliver the highest quality of care to patients in the St. Louis area.
Our treatments are safe, effective, and provide fast relief. To get started, give us a call at 314-487-9300 or request an appointment online!