Most people have heard of baby signs even if they haven’t used them with their own children. The people who do use signs to communicate with their babies typically report less guess work with figuring out what baby wants. Communicating with your baby through signs can begin as early as 5 months although results may not be seen for a few months. Read more…
Gentle Birth Choices by Barbara Harper is a wonderful book for any pregnant woman who wants to make an educated and informed choice about how she births her baby. This book covers birth in hospitals to births at home with midwives and waterbirths. Solid facts and balanced information regarding birth. A definite read for someone wanting a natural birth in a hospital or at home. Also recommended for doulas and childbirth educators.
If you haven’t heard it yet, the news is out – Pediatricians recommend soft soled shoes for the delevopment of tiny infant and toddler feet.
You no longer have to purchase rigid, heavy shoes for your baby’s feet. Research has shown that infant and toddler ankles are quite sturdy and they don’t need the stiff support that many once thought was needed but that soft soled leather shoes are better for your infant or toddler.
Of course barefoot is ideal if conditions permit but lightweight, soft soled leather shoes can provide protection from scrapes, scratches, infection and stubbed toes.
Infant and toddler shoes should have a soft, easily flexed sole, no arch support and room to wiggle little toes so they can develop the natural grasping technique and their feet can develop naturally. Because little feet sweat alot, look for leather since it provides breathability and avoid imitation leather or plastic. Traction is also very important, look for a non-skid sole to prevent slips.
You won’t have a problem finding soft soled shoes to match your little ones wardrobe or personality. There are lots of different styles and designs to choose from. Some of the most popular brands are Robeez, Pedoodles, pediped™ and Soft Star and can be found on-line or in boutique shops. Shoes start at around $26 and soft soled boots are available for an additional cost.
Find Soft Soled Infant & Toddler Shoes
