TIPS FOR BUYING SHOES

■ It’s best to shop in the afternoon, when your child’s feet are a bit swollen, to prevent getting shoes that are too tight.

■ Let the shop assistant measure both feet every time you buy new shoes, to ensure you get the right size.

■ Everyone has one foot that’s slightly larger than the other. Buy shoes that fit the larger foot comfortably.

■ Don’t buy shoes that are too big for your child – it could cause him to slide around in his shoes and fall.

■ Never buy shoes that are too small.

■ Don’t buy shoes with smooth soles.

■ Don’t buy too many shoes at a time. Your toddler’s feet will grow, on average, two shoe sizes per year until age 4. Buy shoes more often, and check every three months that his shoes still fit well.