March 18, 2025 -Mike Tretiakov, a Seattle Children’s Hospital orthopedic surgeon, treats pediatric foot and ankle issues. He stands somewhere between my father-in-law and AAP in the shoes-or-no-shoes debate. “Babies can start wearing [shoes] anytime,” ... May2, 2025 ·Asbabiescontinue to grow and gain confidence, theirshoeneeds will evolve. This transition marks a significant stage in their development. Understanding whenbabieswearshoesis vital, but knowing how to support their walking journey is equally important. In the next section, we will discuss the best types ofshoesfor toddlers and how to choose the right fit. May2, 2023 ·When shouldmy babybegin wearingshoes? This is such a common question I see when we start reaching that walking milestone! Thinking aboutshoesfor new walkerscanbe overwhelming. So, when is the right time to start puttingshoesonyour baby? The short answer: Barefoot is best until… Walking independently in the community (barefoot in grass or sand is still encouraged for ... Babiesshouldwearshoesonly when they start walking outdoors to protect their feet, but indoors barefoot is best for development. Dec 30, 2025 ·WhenCanBabiesStart WearingShoes? The question of when ababycanstart wearingshoesis a common one for new parents. It’s important to understand thatbabiesdon’t necessarily needshoesfor the first severalmonthsof their lives. In fact,shoescansometimes hinder ababy’s natural foot development and ability to learn to walk. Apr 28, 2022 ·Learn when to introduceshoesto your new walker and why barefoot is beneficial. Expert guidance on timing, choosingbabyshoes, and supporting healthy foot development. ABaby’s Foot Development Milestones Before discussing what agecanbabieswearshoes, it’s helpful to understand how their feet progressively develop and get exercise those first couple years: 0-2months: A newborn’s feet initially curl inward and lack muscle tone. But they’ll start moving their legs and feet more, and grasping reflexes in their toes emerge. 3-8months: Asbabies... Myths often confuse parents who are buying shoes for their infants and children.The Community Paediatrics Committee no longer accepts the old belief that a baby must wear shoes soon after birth. Keeping a baby out of shoes in warm, dry conditions is a good idea because walking barefoot develops ... February 25, 2022 -This’ll help strengthen the muscles and tendons in your baby’s feet.There is no particular age at which your baby will need shoes, but a good rule of thumb is to wait until they’ve learned to walk and show signs of wanting to be up and about. For now,barefoot is still best for your baby's foot development. A pair of socks or booties with non-skid soles is also fine for chilly toes. When your baby starts walking, choose shoes that: