The 6^th year of your little one’s life is quite an exciting one. They are probably on their way to grade school, growing fast, and becoming more independent and active. So, if you are finding it a little tricky to choose the perfect footwear for them at this stage, there’s nothing unusual about it. You might especially be wondering what size shoe does a 6 year old wear. After all, it is a basic factor to consider during shoe-shopping. So, remember that kids’ footwear sizes might vary from one brand to another (at least a little, if not much), which means you must get your child’s feet measured accurately to zero in on the right size. Let’s learn more about that and how you can find the best-fitting shoes for your kiddo.    

What’s the Best Way to Measure Your Child’s Feet?

To find the correct answer to what size does a 6 year old wear shoes, take your child to a podiatrist and request them to measure both feet. Ideally, get the measurements in both cm and inches. While tracing the feet of your child on a piece of paper and measuring the same is something many parents do, it can lead to human inaccuracies. So, it’s better to head to an expert who has the right equipment.

Once you have the measurements, you can choose a corresponding size in footwear for your child. For instance, at Jack & Lily, the foot length for a 6 year old is 18 cm or 7.1 inches and the corresponding size is 12.

Incorrect Shoe Size Can Cause Problems 

When it comes to baby shoes or kids’ shoes, an incorrect size or improper fit can cause pain, blisters, corns, ingrown toenails, as well as calluses. Ingrown nails can also trigger infections, redness, and pus. Since your child’s feet are likely to grow till they reach adulthood, ill-fitting shoes can hamper development and even lead to deformities or functional issues. They might impact the way your little one walks, runs, stands, and even cause serious back pain in the future.  

On the other hand, too big shoes can cause your child to trip and fall while playing or running. This can lead to unnecessary accidents and injuries. So, now that you have an idea about what size shoe does a 6 year old wear, avoid buying a pair that is too large even if your child will grow into them later.

Tips to Pick Shoes that Fit Right  

Picking shoes for a 6 year old is not just about measuring their feet and getting a pair in the corresponding size. Be mindful of the following too:  

• Consult a Podiatrist: A podiatrist doesn’t just help you with a 6 year old’s shoe measurements. They can assess if your child’s feet are developing appropriately and suggest the kind of footwear that will most likely support growth and ensure comfort. In case your little one needs shoes with special features, the podiatrist can advise on the same.
• Buy As Per the Bigger Foot: It is rare for a kid’s feet to be of the same size exactly. So, while purchasing shoes, account for the measurements of the bigger foot.
• Watch Out for Tightness or Looseness: Are the shoes digging into your child’s skin or the toes are crammed against the shoe’s front? Does the pair hurt? If yes, then the shoe size for 6 year old you have picked is incorrect. In case your child is dragging their feet around or their heels keep lifting out from the shoes when they are walking, the pair might be too big.
• Check the Toe Box’s Shape: Ideally, the toe box of the shoes should align with the natural shape of your little one’s feet. Also, instead of tapered or pointy toes, opt for shoes with rounded toe boxes. Your child should also be able to wiggle their toes comfortably without any squishing. It is best to have a gap of 1 or 2 cm between the shoe’s front and the longest toe.  
• Ensure Ample Support: The shoes should hug your child’s feet just right instead of pinching them or falling off. They shouldn’t twist in the middle and the heels should be stiff enough, so that the pair lasts even if your kiddo is super active. Apart from knowing what size shoe does a 6 year old wear, you must check for proper arch support, particularly important for physical activities. The soles should be resistant to slips too.
• Consider Shoes with Closures: When it comes to picking a shoe size for 6 year old, remember that kid feet tend to change constantly. Hence, shoes with laces or Velcro straps might be a good idea as they are easily adjustable.
• Avoid Shoes with Break-In Period: The pair you buy for your little one should be the right fit and comfy from the get go. Don’t wait for your child to get acclimatized to the shoes. If they don’t fit right the first time, return them and get a new pair.
• Ask Your Child to Move Around: The best way to find out if a new pair of shoes fits your child right is by asking them to walk, run, jump, or jog around in them. Watch if their movements seem natural or they stumble or wince. Ask how the shoes feel in terms of length, width, under their feet, and around the toes and heels.
• Don’t Go for Tryouts in the Morning: Your child’s feet tend to swell later in the day, after they have been walking or running around for a while. So, ask them to try on new shoes in the afternoon or evening to ensure precise fit.

Gift Your 6 Year Old the Freedom of Movement

By now, you have a fair idea about what size shoe does a 6 year old wear and how to ensure the perfect fit. Besides the fit and support, ensure the materials used in the shoes are breathable, supportive, and antimicrobial. This way, your little one will be able to move around, play, and have fun without any hassle, pain, or stinky feet.  

So, what are you waiting for? Explore the funky range of canvas kicks and slip-ons at Jack & Lily for your munchkin, check the sizing chart, and shop stress-free. If you need suggestions or guidance, you can also contact the professionals here.