Arch Support For Kids: What Parents Need To Know
Your child’s feet are constantly growing and changing, from soft cartilage at birth to fully developed bones by age 18. Proper arch support plays a key role in ensuring healthy foot development, posture, and long-term mobility. But are children’s shoes with arch support needed?
The Journey of Growing Feet
- Birth to 4 Years – Feet are mostly cartilage, protected by "puppy fat." Arches are not yet developed, so flat feet are normal.
- Age 4 to 8 – Secondary bone centres begin fusing, arches become more defined, and growth slows to about two size per year.
- Age 8 to 18 – School age children from 8 years upwards typically grow 1.5 sizes per year, slowing from puberty, with bones continuing to fuse, and feet gradually taking their adult form, reaching 26 bones by the late teens.
Throughout these years, ill-fitting shoes can interfere with natural foot development, leading to discomfort, poor posture, or long-term structural issues.
What’s Best for Growing Feet?
Well-Fitted Shoes? Shoes with the right fit, cushioning, and support promote healthy foot development and proper alignment. Arch support for kids? Many parents question the need for children’s arch support and the importance of kids arch support insoles. For most children under 4, arch development is still in progress, so built-in children’s arch support is not always necessary. Children’s feet are constantly growing and developing, so good heel support is essential when wearing shoes. Firm heel counters provide stability and support, while barefoot time helps strengthen developing feet. A combination of barefoot play and well-fitting shoes offers the best support for busy little feet.
Why It Matters
Every step your child takes shapes their future mobility. Investing in proper footwear ensures a lifetime of healthy movement, balance, and stability. Whether through well-fitted arch support shoes for kids or insoles when needed. To ensure a perfect fit, and get information on the best supportive shoes for your child, visit us in-store at Shoes & Sox for a free fit check. If you are concerned about your child’s foot health, book to see a healthcare professional.
