As mothers, we’re always watching those little steps—first wobbles, running races, playground tumbles, and sporty sprints. Our children’s feet carry them through every adventure, and how we support those tiny feet can shape more than just their physical development—it impacts their confidence, independence, and wellbeing.

At Nurture Paediatrics, we work with families every day to support children’s movement, manage pain, and promote development through expert physiotherapy that’s playful, practical, and tailored to each child’s needs. But there’s a question we get all the time from parents: Should my child be wearing shoes? Or is barefoot better?

Let’s explore what science—and our experience—says about children’s growing feet, the importance of paediatric physiotherapy, and how to find the right balance between barefoot freedom and protective footwear.

Why Barefoot Play Can Be So Beneficial

In Aotearoa, there’s a long-standing cultural tradition of letting kids run free—barefoot at the beach, in the backyard, even to school. And research backs up what many Kiwi mums have long suspected: growing up barefoot can support healthy foot development.

✅ Stronger Foot Muscles
Barefoot play encourages natural use of foot muscles, helping to form stronger arches and more stable ankles.

✅ Better Balance & Coordination
Without shoes to restrict movement, children become more aware of how their bodies move and adjust—boosting neuromuscular control and confidence.

✅ Sensory Awareness
Feeling grass, sand, pebbles, or wood underfoot helps children learn about texture, temperature, and space—fostering rich sensory experiences that support brain development.

When Shoes Matter—and What to Look For

Of course, there are times when shoes are essential—for safety, support, or comfort. The key is choosing the right kind of shoe that still respects how children’s feet grow and move.

Here’s what we recommend as paediatric physios:

1. Flexible Soles
   Young feet are still developing. Avoid stiff, thick soles. Instead, look for shoes that bend easily at the toe and allow natural foot movement.
2. Wide Toe Box
   Shoes should not squish the toes. Your child should be able to wiggle their toes freely—this helps balance and natural foot shape development.
3. Lightweight & Breathable
   Heavy shoes can alter gait and reduce natural movement. Choose shoes made of soft, breathable materials to reduce strain. However, some popular shoes are too soft and light, causing them to move around on the foot, which in turn causes the foot to roll, leading to the child moving awkwardly. They should be able to run, climb and jump freely.
4. Proper Fit Matters
   Foot shape and size vary from child to child. Ill-fitting or worn shoes can contribute to pain, poor posture, or muscle fatigue. Measure regularly and check fit every few months.
5. Think “Function First” for Sport or School Shoes
   If your child is active in sports, opt for activity-specific shoes that support their movement without over-restricting it. Avoid overly supportive or corrective shoes unless recommended by a healthcare professional.

A Balanced Approach: Barefoot & Protected

Let them explore barefoot when it’s safe and natural. Use protective, well-fitting footwear when needed for safety, school, or structured activities. And most importantly—trust your instincts and keep watching those little steps with love.

Because every confident step they take begins with your support.

Where Paediatric Physiotherapy Fits In

Sometimes, kids struggle with pain, tripping, or toe-walking—or they just seem to tire more easily than others. That’s where we come in.

At Nurture Paediatrics, we specialise in child-centred physiotherapy that helps tamariki feel strong in their bodies and confident in their movements. We work with children, from babies to teens, alongside their families, to:

• Identify and treat underlying physical concerns, through gait and biomechanical assessments
• Support recovery from injuries or growing pains
• Empower kids with tools and strategies to manage pain
• Assess development and help with developmental delays
• Guide shoe selection and gait development
• Promote active lifestyles through movement education

And we do all this in a way that’s fun, engaging, and safe—either in person or online.