As Term 1 gets into full-swing, The Educator will be sitting down with experts from across Australia’s vast education spectrum to look at how principals and teachers can best support the back-to-school transition for students.
In this article, The Educator speaks to Dr John Arnold, senior lecturer of Allied Health & Human Performance at UniSA, about the importance of students having appropriate footwear as they return to school.
“The research tells us that in very young children, footwear should offer protection for the feet and not restrict the natural movement of the feet and legs. As children get older, shoes with more structure are required to withstand more ‘wear and tear’,” Dr Arnold told The Educator.
“It’s important that shoes are well fitted and show no signs of rubbing or slipping, especially around the toes and heel.”
Dr Arnold said UniSA’s own studies have shown that school shoes just one size too small restrict the natural motion of the foot joints by as much as 30%.
“Have your child’s fitted at a store that trains their staff in sizing and fitting children’s shoes,” he said.
“Parents that have concerns about their child’s feet should see a Podiatrist for professional advice.”
Dr Arnold said reminders about the benefits of having proper footwear can be placed in newsletters or diaries with a list of local stores who fit children’s shoes.
“The Australian Podiatry Association website also has some ‘Back to School’ resources for buying children’s shoes, these can be placed in a newsletter or email to parents.”