Do Your Kid's School Shoes Fit Right? Before You Shop, Read This! by Donna John

Before you head to the mall for back-to-school shoes, the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons (ACFAS) reminds us that kid’s feet can grow up to two sizes in six months, so you need to account for growth. That doesn't mean you should buy shoes that are too big – oversized shoes cause the foot to slide forward, putting excessive pressure on the toes. 

Foot and ankle surgeons suggest a good fit is about a finger's width from the end of the shoe to the tip of the big toe. And shoes lose their shock absorption over time, so inspect new and old shoes for proper cushioning and arch support.