Podiatrist and Director of Aubrey Podiatry

"Benefits Of Play Barefoot

When a child walks with bare feet, not only does it improves walking, balancing and movement, it also can provide a range of health benefits.

It is important that young children run around barefoot in safe environment to improve their foot and lower leg muscle strength and balance and posture. It engages the feet’s arches, strengthening them, and improves the alignment of muscles throughout the legs. It can also help the nervous system as they are many pressure points in the feet conveying messages to the rest of the body.

A child senses are heighten by what they feel through their feet this also helps their proprioception where their feet are in space which in turn helps with their balance and makes their bodies more where on the space they are in making their more stable in their environment.

Generally outdoor play is good for muscle development and strength as a children develop.

You must take into the safety concerns of barefoot walking – Sunscreen on to and underneath the feet, watch for hazards sticks, glass and sharp stones.

CPlay will be invaluable to help South Canterburian and others in surrounding areas strengthening young childrens foot and lower limb muscles."