While few accessories are more adorable than a tiny pair of baby shoes, leaving your baby’s feet uncovered is important. Feet are one of the most sensory-rich parts of the body; touching surfaces with them creates connections, or synapses, in your baby’s rapidly growing brain.
Receptors in your baby’s feet relay signals that add to their growing awareness of movement and body position. Babies begin integrating this information as they move toward rolling, sitting, and walking.
Naked feet have another advantage, too. During tummy time, even young babies can gain traction by digging into a mat or carpet with their toes.
4 tips to help your baby learn with their feet
- Avoid using socks, shoes, or leggings with foot coverings for at least part of the day.
- During diaper changes, massage your baby’s feet or play games like ‘This little piggy went to market.’
- Help your baby kick a hanging toy while they enjoy playtime on their back.
- Roll a ball or gently rub a textured lovey on your baby’s foot.
Note: You may want your baby to experience bare feet but are worried about them scratching themselves with their sharp toenails. Experts recommend using a nail file or clippers designed for infants to keep baby fingernails and toenails smooth and short.
