My 11 month old has just started walking. I thought walking barefoot would be best for him but a friend says that shoes help with grip and are better for learning to walk. Any views mummies?

Def go barefoot. The bones in a baby's foot are soft and don't finish hardening until a child is around 5 years old. In theory, constricting soft feet with rigid shoes could prevent the bones from developing properly. Also, stiffer soles can make walking harder for those just starting out because their feet are heavier, making them more likely to trip.