I have had a SHOE RULE Policy in my early care program for a couple of decades now.
When arriving, the floor is covered with a heavy (exercise type mat 6x8') that protects our floors. This is where the children's locker/cubbies are located. Parents understand that we change our "street shoes" (sometimes sneakers/tennis shoes, winter snow boots, rain boots, etc.) which are stored in their locker/cubby and retrieve their "inside shoes" from their assigned shoe box on the shelf.
With the understanding that "street shoes" can be contaminated with a number of germs from walking through spit, gum, animal excrements, soil contamination such as pesticides, to whatever debris in the family vehicle (and I have seen some nasty ones) to whatever conditions in the family home and so much more.
Because our children play and nap on mats on the floor (as we all know...kids do not stay on their mats during nap) we felt it would be healthier for our children to not be exposed to these contaminants on the floor/carpets. Also, we have infants playing and found that some children's "street shoes" dragged in small pieces of gravel which later an infant would find and put into their mouths.
Our logic of having a SHOE RULE Policy was for the health and safety of our children in our care as well as respect for other cultures.
Our SHOE RULE Policy goes beyond, "No Street Shoes" worn inside. Because we work with very young children (and parents) we have defined the type of shoes appropriate for play outsides, for running, as well as on play equipment. Not all shoes are appropriate for play.
We wear an "inside shoe" for many of the reasons why we wear a shoe outside...to protect our feet. In Alaska (where I reside), we have winter more than 6 months out of the year. So, it's important for children to wear a hard sole shoe (not a house shoe/slipper) in case there is an emergency, and we would need to evacuate the facility. Also shoes help keep our feet warm, protect us from stepping on toys (we have all stepped on those dang Legos!), and provides some stability. Although reflexology says it's good for us to go shoeless/barefoot and allows us to be grounded with the earth, it's not so great when it's -20 degrees and you need to evacuate a classroom of children who demand to get their shoes because they know it's cold outside. Podiatrist will also agree that as we age, especially those with diabetes, should wear shoes inside.
I know it may be awkward going to a friend's home for the first time and learning they want you to remove your shoes. Because I know this is something we do here in Alaska, I bring an extra pair of socks or some slippers to put on after removing my shoes. I want to respect their home as their guest. You will find that if it is a formal event or a party, most people do require you to remove your shoes. But still be respectful of the type of shoe you are wearing. Some women's shoes leave puts in flooring from the heels and it's not something you would even think about.
I also provide extra slippers, socks, and shoe covers for visitors who want to go beyond our entryway into the program who do not wish to remove their shoes.
PS...CLEAN Socks are a must in our program as well. It's simply a hygiene issue there.
As far as the bathroom. We are required to clean the bathroom all the time. Sanitizing the floor around and near the toilets often. Potty chairs, changing tables, hand sink, etc. are cleaned and sanitized after use.
I also ensure that the child's inside shoes are kept clean. Sometimes, especially after meals or painting, we have to clean the shoes as well to keep from tracking anything throughout the program on the floor/carpets.
Sorry to ramble...Just giving my perspective to having Shoe Rules and why.
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Donna Kelliegh
Administrator & Owner
Mother's Den
AK
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Original Message:
Sent: 05-16-2023 08:38 AM
From: Lisa Zawisza
Subject: Circle Time and Shoes
This is a very interesting question and not one I think I have seen in my 30+ years. With that said, I would want to talk about this further with the parent and see what their true concern is or what they would suggest as a solution. Is this a cultural question or one of health? We are in a group situation in a classroom so there is no practical way to have a germ free situation. If it is slippers or a shoe change in the classroom for instance, that would not "solve" the bathroom issue of bringing germs on footwear from the bathroom to the carpet. I have had children bring slippers (with hard soles so they wouldn't get wet in the bathroom) into the classroom to wear throughout the day but that was more for comfort. I am intrigued by what the family would suggest as a solution or what the actual concern is. I will be following to see what others think!
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Lisa Zawisza
Preschool Teacher
Michigan Dearborn ECEC
MI
Original Message:
Sent: 05-15-2023 05:10 AM
From: Victor Chavez
Subject: Circle Time and Shoes
Hello All,
A parent recently brought to my attention, a concern about children sitting on the carpet during circle time wearing the same shoes they wear from home, around the classroom, in the toilet, and outside on the playground.
This is not something I've seen much discussion (or any for that matter) about, so I'd like to hear some practices/advice about how other centers deal with this concern.
Thank you!
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Victor Chavez
DDCC Admin
SAES
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