Don't babies need support around their ankles when learning to walk?

Question

Do babies need support for their ankles when learning to walk (like a high top shoe (with strings) that gives their ankles support and helps them to walk.

Answer 1

No, high top shoes are actually detrimental to just-learning and new walkers. Kids wiggle and wobble to catch their balance. If you "fix" their ankles to make them more rigid, the kid will fall over instead of regaining his/her balance.



My doctor said barefoot is best at home, but flexible shoes are necessary for when they are out to prevent injury due to stepping on something.

Answer 2

They need to have no support around their ankles.

The supports will keep their ankles from strengthening enough to support their own weight.



Bare foot is the best way for a child to learn to walk.



Don't use shoes until a baby has mastered walking.



EDIT: Socks on carpet only, not hard surfaces. On hard surfaces they are more likely to slip and get hurt.

Answer 3

No, they actually learn best barefoot. My doctor told me that high top shoes could actually hurt my son's ankle while he was learning to walk and to only use them after he had begun walking on his own all the time.

Answer 4

No, they absolutely do not. In fact, shoes or other support can actually hinder healthy children who are learning to walk. Bare feet are best for new walkers. If you absolutely must put shoes on your toddler, go for ones with a soft, flexible sole that are more like slippers than adult shoes.

Answer 5

No, it's actually better for them to learn to walk barefooted. This allows their feet to get a better gripe on the floor. They will fall down a lot, but's part of growing up.

Answer 6

No in fact the best way for them to learn to walk is barefoot.

Answer 7

NO.