About Little Feet

Growth:

Under the age of 16-18 months children's feet grow more than half a foot size every two months.  Toddlers from the ages fo 16 to 24 months grow an average of half a foot size every three months. When they are 2 to 36 months old they grow approximately half a foot size every four months.
Over the age of 3 years , they increase half a foot size every four to six months.

Types of child's footwear:

Pre-walkers (babies and those still crawling) do not need shoes - they need booties or pre-walking shoes that do not restrict the foot's movements.  They should be flexible and not supportive, and conform to the shape of the foot.
The first 'real' shoes can be used when the child first starts to walk unaided (usually around ages 9 to 18 months). Fitting toddlers shoes should follow the guidelines below. Encourage bare foot in protected environments (e.g. indoors).

What to look for in a good shoe:

The sole of the shoe should be relatively straight as the foot is straight.
The fastening mechanism should hold the heel firmly in the back of the shoe, the foot should not be able to slide forward in the shoe.
The heel counter (back of the shoe) should be strong and stable
The shoe should be flexible across the ball of the foot, as this is where the foot bends.
Leather and Canvas are a better material - they are more durable and can breathe. Synthetic materials do not breathe as well, unless they are of the of the 'open weave' type. Avoid plastics.