Why Barefoot Matters: The Research

We understand that every choice made in learning environments shapes children's development. The decision to allow children to play barefoot is more than just a matter of comfort. It's a research-backed practice that supports healthy physical, sensory, and cognitive development.

The evidence is clear. Allowing children to go barefoot in safe, supervised learning environments is a developmentally appropriate practice with wide-ranging benefits. From stronger feet and better balance to enhanced sensory development and deeper connection with their environment, barefoot play supports the whole child.

Feel free to use this blog to help educate parents, educators and other stakeholders about your choice to let children play barefoot. It is hard to argue with the evidence! You can send them this link to the online version of this blog here.

 

BENEFITS OF BAREFOOT PLAY

1. Better balance and jumping ability

Children who habitually go barefoot scored higher on balance and long-jump tests than children who usually wore shoes. Source.

2. More natural foot development and arch morphology

Barefoot children displayed different (often more natural) foot-arch and hallux (big-toe) angles compared to those wearing shoes. Source.

3. Improved toe ground contact (“untouched toes” reduced)

Barefoot kindergarten children had fewer “untouched toes” (toes not contacting the ground) than shoed peers. Source.

4. Greater sensory feedback and proprioception

Barefoot play enhances nerve feedback from the soles, supporting sensory development and body awareness. Source.

5. Stronger foot and lower-leg muscles

Without stiff shoes, foot and ankle muscles are more active, strengthening naturally through everyday movement. Source.

6. More natural gait and running pattern

Barefoot activity promotes natural foot strike and gait mechanics, potentially reducing long-term strain. Source.

7. Improved agility and surface adaptability

Children learn to adapt to different textures (grass, sand, floor), improving balance and agility. Source.

8. Enhanced sensory learning through tactile exploration

Varied ground textures stimulate sensory and neural development. Source.

9. Reduced risk of shoe-related foot deformities

Poorly fitted or stiff shoes can alter natural foot shape; barefoot play supports unrestricted growth. Source.

10. Better toe spread and alignment

Barefoot children tend to have wider toe splay and better alignment, supporting stable posture. Source.

11. Encourages self-regulation and risk awareness

Barefoot children feel terrain directly, adjusting pace and stance for safety and balance. Source.

12. Strengthened connection with nature

Direct contact with grass, dirt, and sand enhances sensory connection and appreciation of the environment. Source.

13. Healthier foot width and natural shape

Habitually barefoot children show broader forefeet, reflecting natural growth patterns. Source.

14. Enhanced motor skills in early childhood

The most noticeable improvements in balance and jumping were in children aged 6–10 years. Source.

15. Long-term benefits for foot health

Childhood footwear habits influence adult foot structure and health outcomes. Source.

16. Fuller activation of foot joints and arches

Barefoot play engages all 26 bones, 33 joints, and 100+ muscles in the feet and ankles. Source.

17. Improved coordination through sensory integration

Enhanced sensory feedback from feet supports the body–brain balance system. Source.

18. Better hazard awareness and potentially fewer falls

Children barefoot detect uneven or rough terrain faster and adapt their steps. Source 

19. Supports natural developmental movement

Crawling, walking, and running patterns occur more naturally when barefoot. Source

20. Simplifies routines and promotes autonomy

Barefoot environments (especially indoors) reduce shoe changes and increase spontaneous play.
Source. 
21. Grounding (Earthing): Potential physiological and emotional benefits

Walking barefoot on natural surfaces may promote calmness, reduce inflammation, and improve emotional well-being by connecting with the Earth’s electrical charge.

Barefoot play isn't a trend or a preference. 

It's grounded in solid research about how children's bodies develop best. You're not asking children to remove their shoes for convenience. You're removing barriers to their natural development.

By embracing barefoot play in our play setting, we're giving children the foundation for a lifetime of healthy movement, strong bodies, and confident physical capability. 

 

Scientific and Educational Sources:

Nicki FarrellWildlings Forest School