Kids' socks come in handy whenever a child dances in closed dance shoes or practice shoes. A sock between the foot and the lining soaks up sweat, so the inside of the shoes stays cleaner for longer and a new pair is easier to break in.

It pays to keep a pair just for dancing:

• pack them in the dance bag next to the shoes, so there is no last-minute search before class;
• with two pairs, one can be in the wash while the other is ready for the next practice;
• when trying on new dance shoes, wear the same socks your child will dance in.