I don't see such a big deal regarding a child going barefoot, even in walmart. I haven't seen much dangerous materials at my big box stores.

Is it clean? I don't think so. Is it overly safe? Probably not. But it just doesn't rank up there in the top 10 sins of child rearing, in my book.

It is kind of funny, the discussion on sanitary issues...sure the childs foot gets dirty. Just like the shoe that is then worn into the house.

Like LH...I feel pretty comfortable with my parenting decisions. For people to fall out over this seems so minor in my book.