Sports, Shoes and Your Child

Children’s court shoes support both sides of the foot, since children must make quick movements and weight shifts as they chase after tennis balls. Flexible soles help children change direction quickly.

– Sprinting Toward the Finish. Every runner, no matter their age, requires a shoe fitted to their style and speed. Good running shoes provide maximum shock protection to avoid leg and knee injuries. They make sure that feet hit the ground correctly.

Parents should look for the APMA Seal of Approval on footwear, which guarantees that shoes meet guidelines for stability and safety. They also shouldn’t forget to buy synthetic blended socks, without large seams, that wick away moisture and help prevent odor.

For more information, visit www.apma.org/pediatrics.