It’s much easier to leave the kids at home when battling the back-to-school crowds, but shoe shopping is a time when it’s best for the child to be present. It’s important that his or her foot is properly measured so the shoes fit right and give the appropriate amount of support. When parents estimate their children’s shoe sizes and/or buy shoes a size too big to “stretch out” their wear, they risk giving their kids permanent foot, ankle and knee problems and pain.
A general rule of thumb while shopping for kids shoes is there should be a finger's width of space between the back of the shoe and the child's heel (your finger, not theirs). You should also press down on the toe area while the child is in the shoes to make sure there is plenty of space for toe wiggling.