The Big Toddle with Deichmann and Barnardo’s is a short, sponsored walk for children under five (but kids of any age can still take part!), designed to raise money for vulnerable families. This year, as the event’s headline sponsor, we’re helping everyone put their Best Foot Forward to raise money for this great cause, taking place from 28th June to 4th July 2021.
It is easy to get all the family on the move with a free resource pack. You can choose from two safari themed packs and can do it with your kids’ nursery, friends, family, community groups, etc. Choose between toddling at home in the garden or the great outdoors, such as the park or playground, with various activities to make it fun for both you and your child.
To help you get started, we have put together some handy tips on how to prepare, what to take and how to keep little ones on the move. One of the most important tasks is finding your little one the appropriate footwear.
How to choose the right shoes for toddlers
Choosing the right shoes for your toddler is very important for keeping their feet healthy. The first step to healthy feet is measuring them often, to make sure your child’s shoe size provides the right support and fit, is not too tight or too big.
At Deichmann, we have a range of toddler shoes for all ages – perfect for those who are taking their first steps and those who love a run around. We offer an in-store foot measuring service, so you know the right size shoe for your toddler. If you cannot visit us in store, you can easily measure and fit shoes at home with our foot gauge.
- The shoe should be light and flexible to support natural foot movement with a stable sole for support.
- The shoe should be canvas, mesh, or leather to allow the feet to breathe comfortably.
- The shoe should have rubber soles for grip to prevent slipping.
- Avoid stiff and tight footwear as this may cause weakness, loss of mobility and even deformity.
- Your shoes selection should be based on the barefoot model, for natural movements.
- Choose a durable sole for good shock absorption as children participate in more high impact activities.
Shoe recommendations for toddlers
A lightweight shoe is appropriate at this age as they use a lot of energy walking, running, and engaging in many other activities. A mesh or leather shoe with laces or touch fastening straps is more secure and will make little feet more comfortable. Toddlers can also go barefoot in a safe environment, such as indoors.
These stylish Cupcake Couture white butterfly bar shoes are perfect for your little girl. Easy to wear with a touch fastening strap and pretty butterfly patterns. Perfect for early years walking, providing comfort and stability with a padded insole to support their little feet. Priced at £12.99.
Add extra sparkle to their little feet with our Cupcake Couture glitter twin strap trainers. A Lightweight and comfortable trainer to allow natural foot movement and a thick sole with grip to keep up with all the activities. Priced at £12.99.
Cool and trendy toddler trainers from Bobbi-Shoes for boys. These shoes will keep up with them every step of the way. Whether walking or running, little feet will be protected and secured with touch fastening straps. Easy to wear with breathable material. Priced at £17.99.
The Bobbi-Shoes toddler boy sporty caged sandals are designed to support your toddler’s feet at all times, with a double strap to secure the foot so they don’t trip over; they will be playing all day long. Priced at £12.99.
Shoe recommendations for children
At this age, children want stylish and more trendy shoes, but the main function should still be on choosing footwear with shock absorption and protection. They also have a wider variety of shoes to pick from, such as athletic trainers, stylish sandals, chunky hiking boots and more. It’s very important to wear the appropriate shoe for the activity to prevent discomfort, blisters and injuries. Ensure to look for well-ventilated, flexible shoes and allow plenty of room for growth.
Grab a pair of our Graceland colour block trainers for impressive comfort on the go. These fun and affordable trainers for junior girls are designed to deliver all the support growing feet need while exercising. Priced at £17.99.
Colourful and super comfy, this pair of Skechers for junior girls are ideal for any level of activity. Benefitting from a padded ankle collar and cushioned insole for support and touch fastening for a secure fit, children will love getting on the move in these trainers. Priced at £29.99.
This lightweight pair of trainers from Fila are perfect for walking and the navy, orange and yellow colourway is sure to be a big hit with junior boys. The breathable mesh upper, cushioned insole and elasticated laces deliver a flexible step. Priced at £29.99.
Boys will stride ahead in this pair of blue trainers from Memphis One. Made with comfort in mind, these provide excellent support, comfort and style at an affordable price – perfect for active children. Priced at £17.99.
How to keep children motivated and entertained during The Big Toddle with Deichmann & Barnardo’s
Children can easily entertain themselves, but as every parent knows, they can also get bored quite quickly. You must always be ready to entertain (or distract) them, meaning you must be creative and be prepared at all times. But don’t worry, we have some great ideas to keep them busy.
Thanks to our partnership, The Big Toddle with Deichmann and Barnardo’s is the perfect solution for everyone. Here are our top tips on how to keep children entertained along the way and the essential things to take with you.
If you are heading to a park or playground, be sure to pack the essentials:
- Sunscreen
- Sunglasses & hat
- Water or juice
- Wet wipes
- Hand sanitiser & anti-bacterial wipes
- Small snacks – a box of raisins, fruit or carrot sticks
- Cash for an ice cream
- Raincoat
- Change of clothes
Check out our range of accessories for children to stock up on sunglasses, backpacks, reusable water bottles and more for The Big Toddle with Deichmann and Barnardo’s.
How to make it fun!
- Spot nature and birds along the way:
- look out for a willow tree
- first one to spot a yellow flower
- ‘what am I’
- a treasure hunt
- tag or frisbee – perfect for older children
- Skipping, singing, dancing, telling stories and listening to music.
- Use The Big Toddle with Deichmann and Barnardo’s fundraising pack for animal-themed learning resources
- Take a walk on the wild side with the Safari Map route guide
- You might also try to hook up with another mum so the kids can have fun without the parents!
Sign up for The Big Toddle with Deichmann and Barnardo’s and let us know you are taking part by tagging @Deichmann_UK and #BestFootForward.