Toddler refusing to wear shoes

[kathryn1592]

My 17 month old has recently started walking and so we have got his feet measured to get him some shoes for outdoors and nursery. Taking him to get measured was a total disaster, as soon as the shoe went on his foot he started crying and refused to walk in them, so I paid for them and took them home. Ever since, about 2 months, he refuses to wear his shoes. We have tried sandals and Velcro trainers (pre walkers so bendy heel for more comfort). He just cries endlessly and refuses to walk, it’s like he freezes and doesn’t move. We have tried to make it fun, copying mum and dad, explaining we need them for playing outdoors (although not sure he’s old enough to understand this) and nothing works. He wears socks fine. Any suggestions?

Do they still fit after 2 months?

My son refuses many clothing items but what often works is a really good distraction where they barely even notice you've put them on. He wouldn't wear wellies but it snowed one day and he was really keen to go outside, we just said quick let's get your wellies on and took him outside before he noticed.

Maybe something interesting in the garden? A sprinkler? Sand pit? New slide? Just something that requires shoes on.

Start with inch blue leather shoes as they are like slightly thicker socks. Then progress to other barefoot shoes where his feet won't feel constricted.

Check out barefoot brit online for good ideas.