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We found out.... Are the answers CORRECT or INCORRECT or...?
ChatGPT seems to be the new prodigy of 2024. The generative AI language model gives you answers to all your questions in a matter of seconds. Questions about what is the best road trip through Norway with kids, as well as what do I prepare with the ingredients Jerusalem artichoke, apple and mackerel or what is the content of a healthy lunch box for my toddler?
ChatGPT seems like a life partner with an answer to every question and this made us curious too.
So we put it to the test and formulated a question that is often asked by our customers; “How do you make the right choice when buying a child’s first shoe?”
ChatGPT has as an answer 5 features listed below.
Are these answers CORRECT or WRONG?
1. Fit: Make sure the shoes fit properly. Shoes that are too big can cause tripping hazards, while shoes that are too tight can hinder the natural growth of the feet. Make sure there is enough room for the toes to move and that the heel is well supported.
Answer Anna Pops: CORRECT, but the answer is rather vague. It is important that children's shoes fit well around the foot so that they transfer their specific properties to the foot as much as possible and a healthy walking posture is stimulated. But because your child may have narrow or wide feet, a high or low instep, we recommend choosing a lace-up closure. This guarantees customization around the foot. This does not have to lead to stress in the morning because our sporty models often have a zipper on the side. So this is a win-win; quality footwear and quick to put on and take off.
Tips on the importance of the fit of children's shoes
2. Flexibility and support: Choose shoes that are flexible and at the same time provide sufficient support. This is important for the natural movement and growth of the foot. Materials such as leather or fabric are often better than hard, inflexible materials.
Answer Anna Pops: INCORRECT. The shoe and its features are different based on the developmental stage your child is in. For example, a shoe made of supple leather with an anti-slip sole is ideal for your baby who rolls and crawls.
Tips on the ideal shoe for your crawling baby
In his next phase, when your toddler is pulling himself up and walking by hand or with a cart, a leather shoe with a flexible sole is the ideal solution.
Tips on the right shoe for your toddler who pulls himself up
Then we come to the final phase where your child walks independently. The ideal walking posture is literally supported by shoes with a sturdy heel piece, sturdy sole where the toe folds over approximately 20° and of course in leather that helps prevent sweaty feet.
Tips on choosing the right shoes for your child who walks independently
3. Breathability: Look for shoes that are breathable, as children's feet sweat a lot. This helps prevent sweat and possible skin irritations.
Answer Anna Pops: CORRECT. Children sweat up to twice as much as adults along their feet because sweat glands in other places have not yet developed. No matter how hip textile or cotton shoes look, they are not the right material for a healthy children's shoe. Leather is. It has the ability to absorb moisture and release it again, which prevents sweaty feet.
4. Quality: Invest in quality shoes. They last longer and generally provide better support and comfort for growing feet.
Answer Anna Pops: CORRECT, but the answer is rather vague. The ideal shoe is one that fits your foot in terms of fit; Do you have a narrow or wide foot, high or low instep or do you wear arch supports? In addition, leather is ideal against sweaty feet and laces ensure that the shoe fits perfectly around the foot. And then there is the aspect of the growth margin. The shoes must be large enough to allow the toes to move and to be able to walk, run and jump smoothly. Count on a growth margin of approximately 15 mm. But can you buy a shoe that is too big?
Can I buy a child's shoe that is too big?
5. Professional advice: Consult an expert, such as a pediatrician or a shoe specialist, to get advice about the right size and style for your child's feet.
Answer Anna Pops: CORRECT. It is extremely important that your child wears the right footwear in function of his development or his foot characteristics. Quality children's footwear promotes healthy growth development and prevents foot, knee and back complaints later in life. In short, quality footwear is valuable for your growing apples of the eye as well as in their further lives as teenagers and adults.
One last tip that is guaranteed to be asked when new parents buy a first pair of shoes; “How often do you need a new pair of shoes?”
The answer to the question 'how often do you need a new shoe'?
Conclusion, ChatGPT makes a commendable attempt. He is a good student but not an expert. His answers often lack some nuance and depth. We are happy to provide this extra information to you for free via Instragram Highlights , our Youtube channel or in person in our store. We know that every parent wants the best for their child and we are happy to help.
