The Toddler Shoe Debacle – Summer Edition

The day Annie took those first teeny tiny baby steps I quickly realized that she was going to need real shoes. It was a lovely first-time parent moment as I took my toddling child to the park with flimsy cardboard-soled shoes that fell off with every step. I had no idea my massive stash of darling shoes would be useless once she started walking. Apparently, toddlers don’t get the whole beauty is pain motto. I wheeled right into Baby Gap the next day and promptly told them I needed shoes with hard soles. I quickly learned that they didn’t make them in her size, nor did any of my other go to retailers. My mind was boggled. Surely other Moms face this same issue? Once I did find shoes small enough, they were either hideous or fell off her feet in an instant (I won’t publicly admit how many baby shoes I have already lost)! Needless to say, the selection for fabulous tiny toddler tootsies is slim.

When I was a kid, I ran around in these awesome shoes called Saltwaters. Turns out, these puppies are making a comeback and they are the solution to all of my toddler shoe woes. They are fashionable, functional AND can be washed in the dishwasher. Anything that can go in my dishwasher wins in my book. And no, this is not a sponsored post. I just love them this much.

We wear them to church and straight in the splash pad. Dress them up or dress them down. They are also nearly impossible for toddlers to get off, thanks to the buckles. People comment on these shoes everywhere we go. Honestly, these shoes are one of my “top five must have toddler items.” Kixx Shoes on Park Road has an incredible selection. They are $32 and will be one of your best investments as a Mama, no matter how old your kiddos are. In fact, I love them so much I just bought myself a pair. If your babe has tiny feet like mine, try the SeaWees. Same company, just a smaller shoe.

Now, on to finding closed-toed shoes for the fall/winter that actually stay on. Who can help this new Mommy out?