Walking barefoot engages the foot’s 19 muscles and numerous tendons, all of which play crucial roles in developing balance, proprioception (body awareness), and stability. Barefoot walking activates the muscles in a way shoes often restrict, strengthening the arches of the feet and improving alignment through the ankles, knees, and hips. Stronger foot muscles support better posture and contribute to a child’s overall stability, helping prevent injuries later in life.

When children go barefoot, they learn to control the movement and position of their feet better. This natural movement leads to healthier foot mechanics, which positively impact the development of major joints, like the ankles, knees, and hips. Shoes, particularly poorly fitting ones, can alter how kids move and grow. Going barefoot relieves the restriction of these movements, allowing natural foot alignment and aiding in the prevention of issues such as bunions or hammertoes.

There’s a term for the positive effects of direct physical contact with the earth: “Earthing” or “Grounding.” Research has shown that when children (and adults!) walk barefoot on natural surfaces, they may experience reduced stress levels and improved sleep. The act of grounding has been linked to balancing cortisol levels and easing physical tension, which can improve children’s overall emotional well-being.

Walking barefoot requires children to engage fully with their environment. Suddenly, they’re more aware of what’s beneath their feet. Is that a prickly stick or sharp rock? Can they feel how slippery the wet floor became? The act of grounding them in the present moment increases their awareness and appreciation of the natural world. With all senses heightened, they’re paying attention to sounds, sights, smells, and textures—this tactile experience helps cultivate a lifelong appreciation for nature.

Barefoot time opens the door for children to explore with curiosity, unconstrained by the limitations of shoes. It’s a beautiful way to encourage them to explore nature freely, inspiring questions and observations about the world around them. They can feel the cool mud squish underfoot, trace their steps on warm sand, or tiptoe over pebbles—all of which are building blocks of meaningful, sensory-rich play.