Kids First Steps: Therapist-Recommended Shoes and Walkers

As young children begin to reach developmental milestones, such as learning to walk, choosing the right shoes and assistive devices can be a key part of supporting their movement skills. At RISE Pediatric Therapies, our early intervention teams of therapists work with children with developmental delays and disabilities. We’ve seen firsthand how both proper footwear and supportive walking devices can make a significant difference for children ages 0-3 who are just beginning to explore their environment on foot. Below, we’ll share our therapist-recommended footwear and baby walker options.

Why the Right Shoes Matter for Early Walking

Selecting the right shoes is crucial for toddlers, as their feet are developing and their gross motor skills are rapidly changing. For children with developmental delays or disabilities, supportive shoes can help promote balance and stability as they work toward achieving their movement goals.

When learning to walk, children benefit from shoes that allow natural foot motion and protect their feet during both indoor and outdoor exploration. Look for shoes with:

• Flexible soles: Lightweight, flexible soles enable natural foot movement, which is essential for developing proper walking patterns.
• Secure fit: Choose shoes with adjustable closures, such as Velcro or elastic, to ensure they stay on and don’t restrict movement.
• Wide toe box: A roomy toe area supports healthy growth and balance.

Therapist-Recommended Shoe Brands for New Walkers

Below are three of our therapist-recommended shoe brands that are ideal for new walkers. Each option offers specific features to promote comfort, stability, and healthy foot development during your child’s first steps.

• Stride Rite Soft Motion Shoes: Designed for first steps, these shoes have flexible soles and gentle support.
• See Kai Run Basics: Available at many retailers, including Target, these shoes feature a wide toe box and adjustable closures.
• Whitin Toddler Shoes: Found on Amazon, these options are lightweight and encourage natural movement.

Recommended Baby Walkers for Early Exploration

Along with selecting the right shoes, some families find that baby walkers can provide extra stability and encouragement as children practice standing and taking their first steps under supervision. Here are several therapist-recommended baby walker brands:

• Skip Hop Baby Walker 4-in-1 Sit-to-Stand Convertible: A versatile, convertible walker that grows with your child, offering support from sitting to standing.
• VTech Stroll and Discover Activity Walker: Designed to engage children with interactive features while helping them build balance and coordination.
• Fisher-Price 2-Sided Steady Speed Walker: Offers steady support for new walkers and interactive play options on both sides.

Connect with RISE Pediatric Therapies

At RISE Pediatric Therapies, we support young children with developmental delays and disabilities as they progress toward developmental milestones. We offer physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech and language therapy, feeding therapy, and more at our locations in Arizona, Idaho, and Florida.

To learn how we can support your child as they take their next steps forward, contact RISE Pediatric Therapies today!