Kids’ shoes usually hold great sentimental value for parents, as they mark the child’s first steps into the world and their first ventures. At the same time, however, they quickly lose their usefulness as children’s little feet grow non-stop, resulting in the need for new shoes every so often. Below we’ve put together some smart ways in which you can breathe new life into old kids’ shoes. Let’s break them down!

DIY
If the kids are simply bored of their kids’ shoes while they still fit them, get creative… Replace the laces, add glitter, glue sequins or – especially if they are made of canvas – paint them with special fabric paint! There are so many creative ways to turn them into something unique that kids will love, especially if you do it with them.

Give them away
This may sound trite, but it’s one of the best things you can do with old kids’ shoes. There are so many places where you can donate them, such as organizations and thrift stores, while you can always find out if relatives, friends or even neighbors need them. For you they may be old, but for some they will be useful and brand new. This way you will both give them new life and impart a wonderful lesson to your children.

Make handmade mementos
We understand that even if children can’t wear them anymore, some kids’ shoes, such as baby or christening shoes, are hard to part with. So keep them and make beautiful mementos. Tie them in a pretty ribbon and make a bow to hang them anywhere, or purchase a small glass dome and place them inside along with a set of battery operated LED lights. The effect will be magical and full of sentimental value.

Sooner or later of course you will need new kids’ shoes for your little ones and the Smiley steps kids shoes store will be here for just that!