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Avoiding Falls and Accidents
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by Mary Ellen Ostrander, R.N. with Katie Chamberlain ’12 and Sonya Sepkowitz ’12
Jessica Simpson may have been able to perform in concert wearing platform mile-high 4 to 5 inch heels. School children, however, are prone to accidents when they come to school in footwear that may be stylish but is inappropriate, and perhaps even dangerous.
Some of the most popular shoes for young girls---ballet slippers, flip-flops, sandals and certain styles of Crocs are hip and cute. Most of these, however, do not provide the support and traction needed to navigate crowded school hallways and stairs; nor do they present sufficient opportunity for girls to be physically active. These stylish, trendy shoes may result in a fall, a visit to the school nurse, perhaps even a trip to the emergency room.
Fortunately, for the most part, boys do not wear flip-flops or sandals as frequently as girls. Their everyday preference is for sneakers, which do offer the traction, support and feasibility to engage in sports (as long as they tie them appropriately!).
Some accidents, of course, are unavoidable. Outfitting your child with the right footwear will, hopefully, help her or him stay on their feet, and avoid injury. Keep in mind that school is a workplace and wearing the proper footwear is important. So when you go shopping for school shoes, think about safety: work with your child. Though your child may beg for that trendy shoe that ‘all’ the classmates are wearing, there are many safe shoes that are also stylish. Some major brands now offering slip resistant shoes include Skechers, Rockport and New Balance. And, who knows? They may start a new trend among their friends.
Even one accident can keep your child out of class and away from extracurricular activities, like sports, for quite a while. In addition, the stress and discomfort from an injury can impact your child’s ability to concentrate on schoolwork, whether at home or in class.
Don’t forget the price to you as parents. A trip to the doctor’s office or hospital that could have been avoided can add to you financial expenses as well as emotional stress.
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