How to Measure Your Child's Feet Correctly at Home

As parents, we all know how fast little feet can grow. One month they’re crawling in soft booties, and before you know it, they’re running around in sneakers. But what many parents don’t realize is that wearing the wrong shoe size, even slightly off, can lead to discomfort, posture problems, and long-term foot issues. Measuring your child’s feet at home is simple, accurate, and ensures your next shoe purchase truly supports healthy growth.

Step 1: Set up the space

Take a blank sheet of paper and place it against a wall on a hard floor. Have your child stand straight with their heel touching the wall and their full weight on both feet. Make sure they’re standing naturally, not leaning or curling their toes.

Step 2: Mark and measure

Using a pencil, mark where the longest toe ends. Measure the distance from the wall to the mark in centimeters. Repeat the process for both feet, it’s common for one foot to be slightly larger. Always go with the larger measurement when selecting a shoe size.

Step 3: Check the width

If your child’s foot spreads beyond the paper’s width or feels squeezed in narrow shoes, consider a wider fit. Proper width ensures comfort during movement and prevents blisters or pinching.

Step 4: Add growth allowance

Children’s feet grow about half a size every 2–3 months, especially between ages 1–5. Add approximately 1 to 1.2 cm (half an inch) to their longest measurement. This gives toes space to move while allowing room for natural growth.

Step 5: Test the fit

Once you’ve chosen the right size, check that your child can wiggle their toes easily. Have them walk around, their gait should feel natural, not tight or loose. If their heels lift or slide, size down slightly.

At G&D Shoes, we understand how important the right fit is for growing feet. That’s why every pair is designed with adaptive sizing, breathable materials, and soft cushioning, ensuring comfort from playground to classroom. By measuring at home, you not only save time but also give your child the perfect start, one confident step at a time.