It is more difficult for a child to communicate how the shoe feels. Sometimes children may say a shoe hurts if they do not like the style or, conversely, they may say a shoe feels good if they like the way it looks. (When the Shoe Fits, The Basics of Professional Shoe Fitting).

The conversion of children’s shoes to ladies is a 1 ½ size difference. Example: children’s size 3 ½ is equal to a ladies 5.

The conversion of European sizes to American sizes differs from company to company. However, an example is euro size 22 equals American 6 1/2, euro 29 equals American 11 ½.

Both feet should be measured when determining size. It is not unusual for one foot to be larger than the other. You should always fit the larger foot.

There is 1/3 inch difference in whole sizes and 1/6 inch difference in half sizes. Example is there is l/6 inch difference between a size 5 and a 5 ½ .

Shoes do not all fit the same. Therefore, you may need a size 3 in one shoe and a size 4 in another. It is always best to try shoes on before buying.

A child’s foot growth is sporadic. It does not grow constantly.

Children’s shoes should be checked minimally as follows:

• Age 12-18 months – every 2 months
• Age 18-30 months – every 3 months
• Age 2 ½ – 4 years – every 4 months
• Age 4- 6 years – every 6 months

Also, since children grow in spurts, their feet should be checked every time a growth spurt occurs.
(When the Shoe Fits, The Basics of Professional Shoe Fitting).