More Interesting Baby Foot Facts

The easiest way to trim a babies nails is simply by peeling them with your fingers. They should be soft enough to avoid using scissors but, if required, only cut when two adults are around: one to hold wriggly feet, the other to do the careful cutting. Special baby scissors with rounded ends are available.

The flat footed appearance of some baby feet is normal and is caused by an extra layer of fat filling out the arches. This layer generally disappears at the end of toddler years when muscles strengthen and arches begin to develop. The curling of a babies foot when touched is known as the “plantar reflex” and is a indication of a healthy connection between the brain and spinal cord. When touched under the foot, the toes of a young baby (less than a few months) will fan out while those of an older baby will curl.

Experts agree that when possible, barefoot is best for babies. Footwear should be used when needed for warmth and protection (and sometimes to make an outfit!). When footwear is worn it should be appropriate to developmental stage.

Medical experts agree that flexible, soft-sole shoes are best for optimal growth and development of young feet. Traditional stiff, high-top, hard-sole shoes are actually detrimental to the growth and development of little feet.