School Shoes for Kids: A Parent’s Guide to Supporting Growing Feet

School shoes are more than just part of a uniform—they play a crucial role in supporting your child’s feet during a period of rapid growth. From walking between classrooms to running at lunch, children spend long hours on their feet each day. Shoes that don’t fit properly or lack adequate support can lead to sore feet, tired legs, and ongoing issues as growing feet adapt to poor footwear.

Fit and structure should always come first when choosing school shoes. A well-designed shoe should feel secure around the heel, provide proper support through the midfoot, and allow the toes enough space to move naturally. Shoes that are too tight can restrict movement and cause discomfort, while shoes that are too loose can affect stability and posture. While buying shoes with extra room “to grow into” might seem practical, too much space can reduce foot control and put unnecessary strain on growing feet.

This is where professional guidance can make a real difference. At Peak Podiatry, we assess how your child’s feet are developing, how they walk and run, and whether their school shoes provide the right level of support. We can recommend suitable shoe styles, check the fit of current footwear, and prescribe custom orthotics if needed. If your child experiences foot, leg, or knee pain, early assessment can prevent small issues from becoming long-term problems. Our goal is to help children stay comfortable, active, and confident on their feet throughout the school year.