Welcome to our tips on buying Clothes & Footwear for Kids Children's Shoes: You should check your children's shoes periodically to make sure they are still the right shoes for your child. Look out for particularly worn areas, or stressed seams. Bulging sides or toes that bend upwards are a sign that shoes the don't fit properly, and worn out toes or heels obviously mean it's time for new shoes. Tips for Buying Children's Shoes: Shop in the afternoon or evening, since feet swell during the day. Have your children's feet measured. Feet should be measured while standing up, and always have both feet measured. Since one foot is usually larger than the other foot, buy shoes to accommodate the larger foot. There should be about half an inch of room between the edge of the shoe toe and the edge of your child's toes. Never buy shoes that are more than one size too large for your child. Shoes that are too big can cause a child to trip and develop foot problems while trying to walk. The heel of the shoe should rest comfortably but not tightly around the back of your child's heel. Any shoes should be immediately comfortable. Shoes need to fit and feel good now. Don't allow for a breaking in period or expect shoes to get more comfortable over time. Children's shoes should have laces, velcro or some other method of fastening the shoe. Try to avoid backless or slip-on shoes. Children's shoes should be made from breathable materials, such such as canvas or leather to help avoid discomfort and smelly shoes! Stick with flat shoes with even, sturdy, flexible soles. Look for a patterned or textured sole for grip. Avoid heels to help avoid improper foot development. Look for a store that specializes in children's footwear, as the staff usually have experience in dealing with reluctant children when shoe shopping. Allow your children some input into the color or design of the appropriate shoes you buy.