As a parent, it’s natural to keep a close eye on your child’s growth and development — including how their feet look and move. Many mums and dads notice their child’s feet appear “flat” when standing or walking. In this friendly guide we’ll explain what flat feet are, when to be concerned, how orthopaedic shoes can help, and how Ortho Shoes supports families across Australia.
What are flat feet?
Flat feet (pes planus) describes feet where the arches are reduced or not visible, so much of the sole touches the ground. In many toddlers and young children this is completely normal — arches often develop between about age 3 and 7. For some children the arch becomes more noticeable later.
When should parents worry?
Not all flat feet cause problems, but you should seek advice if your child:
- Complains of foot, leg or knee pain
- Walks awkwardly, trips often or has an unusual gait
- Has uneven shoe wear (one side of the heel wears faster)
- Seems to tire quickly during play or sport
If flat feet occur alongside conditions such as Down syndrome, cerebral palsy or developmental delays, supportive footwear is often especially important.
How orthopaedic shoes can help
Well-designed orthopaedic shoes can:
- ✅ Encourage healthier posture and walking patterns
- ✅ Reduce discomfort and fatigue
- ✅ Improve ankle stability
- ✅ Help prevent long-term joint issues
At Ortho Shoes our children’s shoes commonly include:
- Arch support for better alignment
- Thomas heels for extra stability (helpful for flat feet and clubfoot)
- Ankle support to assist balance and reduce rolling
Measuring feet at home (step-by-step)
If you’re interstate or remote, we can still help find the right size. Follow these simple steps for a reliable measurement:
- Place a clean sheet of paper on the floor against a wall.
- Have your child stand upright with their heel gently touching the wall.
- Place the child’s foot flat on the paper — make sure they’re putting weight on the foot (not sitting).
- Using a pencil held vertically, mark the very back of the heel and the tip of the longest toe.
- Measure the distance between marks (in millimetres) and send us the measurement — we’ll recommend the correct size and model.
Perth families: in-home shoe fitting
If you’re in the Perth metro area we offer personalised in-home fittings. We’ll bring a range of sizes and styles so your child can try shoes on in a relaxed environment — and we’ll make any adjustments on the spot.
NDIS & funding support
We regularly help families using the NDIS. Depending on your child’s plan and goals, orthopaedic footwear may be eligible. If you’re unsure, we can explain the process and provide supporting documentation.
Final thoughts
Flat feet in children aren’t always a cause for alarm. But if your child is uncomfortable, experiencing pain, or struggling with balance, supportive footwear can make a significant difference to comfort and development.
At Ortho Shoes, we’re here to help — whether through an in-home fitting in Perth or remote sizing advice for interstate families. Friendly, practical support is just a call or message away.
Want more helpful guides? Check our other articles: Articles & news · Sizing Chart