Encourage your children to walk barefoot
When last did you encourage your children to walk barefoot? A favourite memory, when growing up in rural Hilton, is wading through puddles and feeling the mud squelch between my toes. Apart from memories, walking barefoot offers numerous benefits for children. This simple, natural practice contributes positively to their physical, sensory, and reasoning development – from strengthening muscles to improving balance and coordination.
A primary benefit of walking barefoot is the development of stronger feet and leg muscles. Shoes, especially those that are overly supportive or restrictive, can limit the natural motion of the foot. Walking without shoes allows children to use their feet in a more natural way, allowing the development of muscles that might otherwise remain under used. This can lead to better foot posture and stronger arches, reducing the likelihood of flat feet and related problems later in life.
Barefoot walking also improves balance and coordination. Without the control of shoes, children are more aware of their movements because they must use their muscles and sense the position of their parts of the body more actively. This helps them develop a better sense of balance and 3-D awareness, which are necessary skills for physical activities such as sport, as well as for everyday tasks.
The soles of the feet are rich in nerve endings (200 000 of them), and walking barefoot stimulates these nerves, providing many physical responses. This stimulation is essential for sensory development, helping children build a strong sense of touch and improving their overall physical wellbeing. Walking on grass, sand, soil, and even pebbles, offers the opportunity to experience the different textures and it stimulates certain connections in the brain that contribute to developing the powers of reasoning. It also encourages mindfulness and a connection with the environment. Children who walk barefoot often become more attuned to their surroundings. They notice the different textures, temperatures, and conditions of the surfaces they walk on. This awareness can raise a sense of curiosity and a deeper appreciation of nature, promoting emotional well-being and a sense of grounding.
Some may think it unhygienic, but walking barefoot can be beneficial for foot health and hygiene. Barefoot walking allows better ventilation for the feet, reducing the risk of fungal infections, such as athlete’s foot that thrive in the moist conditions created by shoes. Also, regular exposure to outdoor elements can toughen the skin on the feet, which means fewer minor cuts and scrapes.
Exposure to the natural bacteria and microbes in the environment can help strengthen the immune system. It’s similar to the way playing in mud can help a child’s overall health by introducing their body to various microorganisms in a controlled manner.
Walking barefoot encourages a more natural posture and alignment. This natural alignment reduces the strain on the joints and can prevent issues such as back pain and joint problems that often arise from poor posture.
As we have highlighted, encouraging children to walk barefoot, when safe and practical, can provide a multitude of benefits that extend beyond the immediate physical advantages. It nurtures their sensory and cognitive development, promotes better health and hygiene, and supports natural posture and alignment. By allowing children the freedom to explore the world without shoes, parents can contribute to their overall growth and well-being.
For more information visit: https://activeforlife.com/benefits-of-going-barefoot/?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAR17BccDxY4oo_n2Y54Tp6PzyqjSzJJGkt7R36fAFp74jBAYiRHpzCi-Y4s_aem_kyONZOVVKgHlNbeiJJTwFw