Baby Steps

Even though they are undeniably cute, those tiny little baby shoes are NOT necessary for and may even hinder the development of your infant's feet. The American Pediatric Association (APMA) recommends that babies be kept barefoot until they master walking, and that even then the shoes are NOT necessary indoors where there are no hazards to tender feet. Walking barefoot or in socks "helps the foot grow normally and to develop its musculature and strength, as well as the grasping action in the toes," according to /APMA. "Societies where people never wear shoes do fine. Sometimes they even have fewer foot problems." says Dr. David Horn, assistant professor of orthopedic surgery at Children's Hospital of Philadelphia.


	Baby Steps Even though they are undeniably cute, those tiny little baby shoes are NOT necessary for and may even hinder the development of your infant's feet. The American Pediatric Association (APMA) recommends that babies be kept barefoot until they master walking, and that even then the shoes are NOT necessary indoors where there are no hazards to tender feet. Walking barefoot or in socks "helps the foot grow normally and to develop its musculature and strength, as well as the grasping action in the toes," according to /APMA. "Societies where people never wear shoes do fine. Sometimes they even have fewer foot problems." says Dr. David Horn, assistant professor of orthopedic surgery at Children's Hospital of Philadelphia. source: Better Homes and Gardens: January 2006 Questions or Comments All poems copyrighted ã1997-... Spring Creations The "Okie" Poet All Rights Reserved