Barefoot shoes are becoming ever more popular - not only among adults, but also among children. But sometimes it's hard for children to understand why they should wear different shoes than their friends, or why they can't choose them just by color or a picture. Here are some recommendations to explain it to them simply, understandably and with an emphasis on their world.

1. Tell them that the foot likes to "exercise"

Explain to children: "Our leg is like a strong arm - it has a lot of muscles that want to move. When the shoe has such a hard sole, the foot cannot move. But in a barefoot shoe, the foot can exercise and be strong like a superhero!"

2. Point out that it's almost like walking barefoot

Explain to children: "Remember how nice it feels to run barefoot on the grass? Barefoot shoes are a lot like this - they are soft, light and at the same time protect our feet from stones and dirt. Wearing this kind of shoes, the foot feels free and can move as it really needs."

3. Compare classic shoes to a house without enough room

Explain to children: "Imagine that your foot lives in a house. When the house is too small or too hard, the foot is squeezed there and feels sad. A barefoot shoe is like a big, soft house where the foot has plenty of space and can smile."

4. Use pets as an example

Explain to children: "Just imagine animals - cats, dogs or monkeys. They all run barefoot, because that's how they feel the ground best."

5. Combine it with movement and joy

Explain to children: "With barefoot shoes, your feet are free and cheerful. You can jump, run and dance better in them, because the feet do what they want to do!"

Important tips for parents:

• Talk through stories, comparisons and gameplay - it makes it easier for children to imagine things.
• Don't emphasize what's "wrong" with other shoes - rather, be positive and explain the benefits of barefoot shoes.
• Allow your child to try them for himself or herself.