How old does child have to be for front facing car seat

When Can I Turn My Baby Around to Face Forward in the Car?

By Alina Bradford

Senior Writer, Safety & Security Expert

June 14, 2022

Determining when a baby can face forward in the car is an important milestone for parents. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, children should remain in rear-facing car seats until they have outgrown car seat height and weight limits of the seat.¹

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Understanding the guidelines for front-facing seats

While 1 year and 20 pounds used to be the standard for when to flip car seats around, most experts now recommend using rear-facing child seats until children outgrow the top weight and height recommendations of the car seat manufacturer. This means your child may be rear-facing until well beyond their second birthday.

There are some situations in which facing backward may seem uncomfortable for a child—like long road trips where it seems like the little one’s legs are cramped up against the back of the seat. You shouldn’t let the baby face forward in the car simply because they seem uncomfortable or don’t like to be rear facing.

Tots are generally very flexible and even when they seem cramped up by adult standards, they can actually be quite comfortable.

Adding a mirror that allows your child to see themselves (and you) while you are driving can help alleviate stress and boredom. And taking breaks during long trips can give your little one time to stretch their legs.

Safely switching your child’s seat

Best overall

Graco 4Ever DLX

$329.97

View on Amazon

*Amazon.com price as of post date. See full disclaimer.

When it's time for a new car seat, check out our car seat buyers guide to ensure you pick the right one for your child’s needs.

Once you make the switch, be sure you properly install the car seat in the new position, tightening all anchors and straps—including the extra tether if available.

You should place the forward-facing seat in the middle of the back seat. This will provide extra protection, as that is the safest spot in the vehicle.

When you're done, head to your local fire or police station. Often, there will be someone on duty trained to check the safety of car seat installation. You can also use the National Highway and Traffic Administration's car seat inspection site locator to find installation help in your area.

Compare the best car seats

Car seat	Best for	Price	Type	Head injury criteria	Chest acceleration	Anti-rebound device	Learn more
Graco 4Ever DLX	Best overall	$329. 97	4-in-1	364	43 g-units	Premier model only	View on Amazon
Cybex Aton 2	Best infant car seat	$299.95	Infant	340	44 g-units	Load leg	View on Amazon
Chicco Keyfit 30	Best for budgets	$219.99	Infant	330	51 g-units	None	View on Amazon
Evenflo Gold SensorSafe EveryStage	Best extended rear-facing	$299.99	4-in-1	Not specified	Not specified	None	View on Amazon
Doona	Best for stroller conversion	$550.00	Infant	603	60 g-units	None	View on Amazon

*Amazon. com price as of post date. Read full disclaimer.

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Car Seats: Information for Families

One of the most important jobs you have as a parent is keeping your child safe when your child is riding in a vehicle.

Each year, thousands of young children are killed or injured in car crashes. Proper use of car safety seats helps keep children safe. But, because so many different seats are on the market, many parents find this overwhelming. If you are expectant parents, consider working with a certified passenger safety technician (CPST or CPS technician), before your baby is born, to ensure a safe ride home from the hospital.

The type of seat your child needs depends on several things, including your child's age, size, and developmental needs. Here is more information from the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) about choosing the most appropriate car safety seat for your child.

Visit here for a listing of car seats & car seat manufacturers.

Types of car seats at a glance:

This chart is a quick guide on where to start your search. It's important to continue your research to learn about each seat you use.

Age-group	Type of Seat	General Guidelines
Infants and toddlers		All infants and toddlers should ride in a rear-facing seat until they reach the highest weight or height allowed by their car safety seat manufacturer. Most convertible seats have limits that will allow children to ride rear facing for 2 years or more.
Toddlers and preschoolers		Children who have outgrown the rear-facing weight or height limit for their convertible seat should use a forward-facing seat with a harness for as long as possible, up to the highest weight or height allowed by their car safety seat manufacturer. Many seats can accommodate children up to 65 pounds or more.
School-aged children	Booster	All children whose weight or height exceeds the forward-facing limit for their car safety seat should use a belt-positioning booster seat until the vehicle seat belt fits properly, typically when they have reached 4 feet 9 inches in height and are 8 to 12 years of age. All children younger than 13 years should ride in the back seat.
Older children	Seat belts	When children are old enough and large enough for the vehicle seat belt to fit them correctly, they should always use lap and shoulder seat belts for the best protection. All children younger than 13 years should ride in the back seat.

Car safety seats may be installed with either the vehicle's seat belt or its LATCH (lower anchors and tethers for children) system. LATCH is an attachment system for car safety seats. Lower anchors can be used instead of the seat belt to install the seat, and many parents find them easier to use in some cars. The top tether should always be used with a forward-facing seat, whether you use the seat belt or lower anchors to secure it. The seat belt and LATCH systems are equally safe, so caregivers should use one or the other, whichever works best for them, for their car safety seat, and their vehicle. In general, caregivers should only use 1 of the 2 options unless the car safety seat and vehicle manufacturers say it is OK to use 2 systems at the same time.

Vehicles with the LATCH system have lower anchors located in the back seat, where the seat cushions meet. Tether anchors are located behind the seat, either on the panel behind the seat (in sedans) or on the back of the seat, ceiling, or floor (in most minivans, SUVs, hatchbacks, and pickup trucks). All forward-facing car safety seats have tethers or tether connectors that fasten to these anchors. Nearly all passenger vehicles and all car safety seats made on or after September 1, 2002, are equipped to use LATCH. See vehicle owner's manual for highest weight of child allowed to use top tether.

All lower anchors are rated for a maximum weight of 65 pounds (total weight includes car safety seat and child). Parents should check the car safety seat manufacturer's recommendations for maximum weight a child can be to use lower anchors. New car safety seats have the maximum weight printed on their label.

NOTE: Seat belts—If you install a car safety seat by using your vehicle's seat belt, you must make sure the seat belt locks to hold the seat tightly. In most newer cars, you can lock the seat belt by pulling it all the way out and then allowing it to retract to keep the seat belt tight around the car safety seat. In addition, many car safety seats have built-in lock-offs so you can lock the belt without having to lock the seat belt separately as well. Refer to the vehicle owner's manual for details about how your seat belt locks.

Middle of the back seat—The safest place to ride for all children younger than 13 years is the back seat. If possible, it may be best for the child to ride in the middle of the back seat. However, it is sometimes difficult to install a car safety seat tightly in the middle if the vehicle seat is narrow or uneven. Also, many vehicles do not have lower anchors for the middle seating position. It is safest to put the car safety seat in a position where you can install it tightly with either the lower anchor system or the seat belt; in some cases, this position may be on either side of the back seat rather than in the middle. A child passenger safety technician (CPST or CPS technician) can help you decide which place is best to install your child's car safety seat in your vehicle.

The AAP recommends that all infants ride rear facing starting with their first ride home from the hospital. All infants and toddlers should ride in a rear-facing seat as long as possible until they reach the highest weight or height allowed by their car safety seat manufacturer. Most convertible seats have limits that will allow children to ride rear facing for 2 years or more. When infants outgrow their rear-facing–only seat, a convertible seat installed rear facing is needed. All parents can benefit from getting installation help from a CPST to ensure that their child's seat is properly installed.

Types of rear-facing seats

Three types of rear-facing seats are available: rear-facing–only, convertible, and all-in-one. When children reach the highest weight or length allowed by the manufacturer of their rear-facing–only seat, they should continue to ride rear facing in a convertible or all-in-one seat.

Rear-facing–only seats

Are used for infants up to 22 to 35 pounds and 26 to 35 inches, depending on the model.
Are small and have carrying handles.
Usually come with a base that can be left in the car. The seat clicks into and out of the base so you don't have to install the seat each time you use it. Parents can buy more than one base for additional vehicles.
Should be used only for a child's travel (not sleeping, feeding, or any other use outside the vehicle).

Convertible seats (used rear facing)

Can be used rear facing and, later, "converted" to forward facing for older children when they outgrow either the weight limit or the length limit for rear facing. This means the seat can be used longer by your child. Convertible seats are bulkier than infant seats, however, and they do not come with carrying handles or separate bases and are designed to stay in the car.
Many have higher limits in rear-facing weight (up to 40–50 pounds) and height than those of rear-facing– only seats, a feature that makes convertible seats ideal for bigger babies and toddlers.
Have a 5-point harness that attaches at the shoulders, at the hips, and between the legs.
Should be used only for a child's travel (not sleeping, feeding, or any other use outside the vehicle).

All-in-one seats (used rear facing)

Can be used rear facing, forward facing, or as a belt- positioning booster. This means the seat may be used longer by your child as your child grows.
Are often bigger in size, so it is important to check that they fit in the vehicle while they are rear facing.
Do not have the convenience of a carrying handle or separate base; however, they may have higher limits in rear-facing weight (up to 40–50 pounds) and height than those of rear-facing–only seats, a feature that makes all-in-one seats ideal for bigger babies and toddlers.

Installation tips for rear-facing seats

Always read the vehicle owner's manual and the car safety seat manual before installing the seat.

When using a rear-facing seat, keep the following tips in mind:

Place the harnesses in your rear-facing seat in slots that are at or below your child's shoulders.
Ensure that the harness is snug (you cannot pinch any slack between your fingers when testing the harness straps over the child's shoulders) and that the chest clip is placed at the center of the chest, even with your child's armpits.
Make sure the car safety seat is installed tightly in the vehicle with either lower anchors or a locked seat belt. Many car safety seats have an integrated lock-off system to keep the seat belt locked. If your seat has one, follow the manufacturer's recommendations on how to use it. If you can move the seat at the belt path more than an inch side to side or front to back, it's not tight enough.
Never place a rear-facing seat in the front seat of a vehicle that has an active front passenger airbag. If the airbag inflates, it will hit the back of the car safety seat, right against your child's head, and could cause serious injury or death.
If you are using a convertible or all-in-one seat in the rear-facing position, make sure the seat belt or lower anchor webbing is routed through the correct belt path. Check the instructions that came with the car safety seat to be sure.
Make sure the seat is at the correct angle so your child's head does not flop forward. Check the instructions to find out the correct angle for your seat and how to adjust the angle if needed. All rear-facing seats have built-in recline indicators.
Check the car safety seat instructions and vehicle owner's manual about whether the car safety seat may contact the back of the vehicle seat in front of it.
Still having trouble? Check with a certified CPST in your area who can help.

Common questions

What if my child's feet touch the back of the vehicle seat?

What do I do if my child slouches down or to the side in the car seat?

You can try placing a tightly rolled receiving blanket on both sides of your child. Many manufacturers allow the use of a tightly rolled small diaper or cloth between the crotch strap and your child, if necessary, to prevent slouching. Do not place padding under or behind your child or use any sort of car safety seat insert unless it came with the seat or was made by the manufacturer for use with that specific seat.

Why should I dress my child in thinner layers of clothing before strapping them into a car safety seat?

Bulky clothing, including winter coats and snowsuits, can compress in a crash and leave the straps too loose to restrain your child, leading to increased risk of injury. Ideally, dress your baby in thinner layers and wrap a coat or blanket around your baby over the buckled harness straps if needed. See Winter Car Seat Safety Tips from the AAP.

Do preemies need a special car seat?

A car safety seat should be approved for a baby's weight. Very small babies who can sit safely in a semi-reclined position usually fit better in rear-facing–only seats. Babies born preterm should be screened while still in the hospital to make sure they can sit safely in a semi-reclined position. Babies who need to lie flat during travel may be able to ride in a car bed that meets Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard 213. They should be screened again while in the hospital to make sure they can lie safely in the car bed.

Always read the vehicle owner's manual and the car safety seat manual before installing the seat.

Any child who has outgrown the rear-facing weight or height limit for her convertible seat should use a forward- facing seat with a harness for as long as possible, up to the highest weight or height allowed by her car safety seat manufacturer. It is best for children to ride in a seat with a harness as long as possible, at least to 4 years of age. If your child outgrows a seat before reaching 4 years of age, consider using a seat with a harness approved for higher weights and heights.

Types of Forward-Facing Car Seat Restraints

Four types of car safety restraints can be used forward facing:

Convertible seats: Seats can "convert" from rear facing to forward facing. These include all-in-one seats.
Combination seats with harness: Seats can be used forward facing with a harness for children who weigh up to 40 to 65 pounds (depending on the model) or without the harness as a booster (up to 100–120 pounds, depending on the model).
Integrated seats: Some vehicles come with built-in forward-facing seats. Weight and height limits vary. Do not use a built-in seat until your child has reached the highest weight or height allowed for your rear-facing convertible car safety seat. Read your vehicle owner's manual for details about how to use these seats.
Travel vests: Vests can be worn by children 22 to 168 pounds and can be an option to traditional forward- facing seats. They are useful for when a vehicle has lap-only seat belts in the rear, for children with certain special needs, or for children whose weight has exceeded that allowed by car safety seats. These vests usually require use of a top tether.

Installation tips for forward-facing seats

Always read the vehicle owner's manual and the car safety seat manual before installing the seat.

It is important that the car safety seat is installed tightly in the vehicle and that the harness fits your child snugly.

To switch a convertible or all-in-one seat from rear-facing to forward-facing:

Move the harness shoulder straps to the slots or position that is at or just above your child's shoulders. Check the instructions that came with the seat to be sure you are positioning the shoulder straps correctly.
You may have to adjust the recline angle of the seat so that it sits more upright in your vehicle. Check the instructions to be sure.
If using a seat belt, make sure it runs through the forward-facing belt path (be sure to follow car safety seat instructions) and that the seat belt is locked and tightened. Many car safety seats have an integrated lock-off to keep the seat belt locked. If your seat has one, follow the manufacturer's recommendations on how to use it.
If using the lower anchors, make sure that the weight of your child plus the weight of the seat does not exceed 65 pounds. Most seats now state in the manual and on the stickers on the side the maximum child weight to use the anchors. If the child weighs too much, caregivers must use the seat belt to install.
Always use the tether when you can. A tether is a strap that is attached to the top part of a car safety seat and holds the seat tightly by connecting to an anchor point in your vehicle (often on the seat back or rear shelf; see your vehicle owner's manual to find where tether anchors are in your vehicle). Tethers give important extra protection by keeping the car safety seat and your child's head from moving too far forward in a crash or sudden stop. All new cars, minivans, and light trucks are required to have tether anchors as of September 2000. Forward-facing seats come with tether straps. A tether should always be used as long as your child has not reached the top weight limit for the tether anchor. Check the car safety seat instructions and vehicle owner's manual for information about the top weight limit and locations of tether anchors.
Watch the Video: How to Install a Forward-Facing Car Seat

Common question

What if I drive more children than those who can be buckled safely in the back seat?

It's best to avoid this, especially if your vehicle has airbags in the front seat. All children younger than 13 years should ride in the back seat. If absolutely necessary, a child in a forward-facing seat with a harness may be the best choice to ride in front. Just be sure the vehicle seat is moved as far back away from the dashboard (and airbag) as possible.

Booster seats are for older children who have outgrown their forward-facing seats. All children whose weight or height exceeds the forward-facing limit for their car safety seat should use a belt-positioning booster seat until the vehicle seat belt fits properly, typically when they have reached 4 feet 9 inches in height and are 8 to 12 years of age. Most children will not fit in most vehicle seat belts without a booster until 10 to 12 years of age. All children younger than 13 years should ride in the back seat. Instructions that come with your car safety seat will tell you the height and weight limits for the seat. As a general guideline, a child has outgrown a forward-facing seat when any of the following situations is true:

They reach the top weight or height allowed for his seat with a harness. (These limits are listed on the seat and in the instruction manual. )
Their shoulders are above the top harness slots.
The tops of their ears have reached the top of the seat.

Types of booster seats

High-back and backless are 2 standard types of booster seats. They do not come with a harness but are used with lap and shoulder seat belts in your vehicle, the same way an adult rides. They are designed to raise a child up so that lap and shoulder seat belts fit properly over the strongest parts of the child's body.

Most booster seats are not secured to the vehicle seat with the seat belt or lower anchors and tether but simply rest on the vehicle seat and are held in place once the seat belt is fastened over a child. However, some models of booster seats can be secured to the vehicle seat and kept in place by using the lower anchors and tether along with lap and shoulder belts. (Currently, only a few vehicle manufacturers offer integrated booster seats.)

Installation tips for booster seats

When using a booster seat, always read the vehicle owner's manual and the car safety seat manual before installing the seat. Booster seats often have a plastic clip or guide to correctly position vehicle lap and shoulder belts. See the booster seat instruction manual for directions on how to use the clip or guide. Booster seats must be used with lap and shoulder belts. When using a booster seat, make sure:

The lap belt lies low and snug across your child's upper thighs.
The shoulder belt crosses the middle of your child's chest and shoulder and is off the neck.
Watch the video: How to Use a Booster Seat

If your booster seat has lower anchors or tether attachments, check its manual for installation instructions.

Common questions about booster seats

What if my car has only lap belts in the back seat?

Lap belts work fine with rear-facing–only, convertible, and forward-facing seats that h av e a harness but can never be used with a booster seat. If your car has only lap belts, use a forward-facing seat that has a harness and higher weight limits. You could also

Check to see if shoulder belts can be installed in your vehicle.
Use a travel vest (check the manufacturer's instructions about the use of lap belts only and about the use of lap and shoulder belts).
Consider buying another car with lap and shoulder belts in the back seat.

What is the difference between high-back boosters and backless boosters?

Both types of boosters are designed to raise your child so seat belts fit properly, and both will reduce your child's risk of injury in a crash. High-back boosters should be used in vehicles without headrests or with low seat backs. Many seats that look like high-back boosters are actually combination seats. They come with harnesses that can be used for smaller children and, later, removed for older children. Backless boosters are usually less expensive and are easier to move from one vehicle to another. Backless boosters can be used safely in vehicles with headrests and high seat backs.

Seat belts are made for adults. Children should stay in a booster seat until adult seat belts fit correctly, typically when children reach about 4 feet 9 inches in height and are 8 to 12 years of age. Most children will not fit in a seat belt alone until 10 to 12 years of age. When children are old enough and large enough to use the vehicle seat belt alone, they should always use lap and shoulder seat belts for the best protection. All children younger than 13 years should ride in the back seat.

Using a seat belt:

An adult seat belt fits correctly when:

The shoulder belt lies across the middle of the chest and shoulder, not the neck or throat.
The lap belt is low and snug across the upper thighs, not the belly.
Your child is tall enough to sit against the vehicle seat back with her knees bent over the edge of the seat without slouching and can comfortably stay in this position throughout the trip.

Other points to keep in mind when using seat belts include:

Make sure your child does not tuck the shoulder belt under her arm or behind her back. This leaves the upper body unprotected and adds extra slack to the seat belt system, putting your child at risk of severe injury in a crash or with sudden braking.
Never allow anyone to "share" seat belts. All passengers must have their own car safety seats or seat belts.

Common question

I've seen products that say they can help make the seat belt fit better. Should we get one of these?

No, these products are unapproved and should not be used. They may actually interfere with proper seat belt fit by causing the lap belt to ride too high on the stomach or making the shoulder belt too loose. They can even damage the seat belt. This rule applies to car safety seats too; do not use extra products unless they came with the seat or are specifically approved by the seat manufacturer. These products are not covered by any federal safety standards, and the AAP does not recommend they be used. As long as children are riding in the correct restraint for their size, they should not need to use additional devices.

When shopping for a car seat, keep the following tips in mind:

No one seat is the "best" or "safest." The best seat is the one that fits your child's size, is correctly installed, fits well in your vehicle, and is used properly every time you drive.
Don't decide by price alone. A higher price does not mean the seat is safer or easier to use.
Avoid used seats if you don't know the seat's history.
Watch the Video: What to Look For When Purchasing a Car Seat

Never use a car seat that:

Is too old. Look on the label for the date the seat was made. Check with the manufacturer to find out how long it recommends using the seat.
Has any visible cracks on it.
Does not have a label with the date of manufacture and model number. Without these, you cannot check to see if the seat has been recalled.
Does not come with instructions. You need them to know how to use the seat. Instructions can be found on manufacturer websites or by contacting the manufacturer.
Is missing parts. Used car safety seats often come without important parts. Check with the manufacturer to make sure you can get the right parts.
Was recalled. You can find out by calling the manufacturer or contacting the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) Vehicle Safety Hotline at 888/327-4236. You can also visit the NHTSA Website.
Do not use seats that have been in a moderate or severe crash. Seats that were in a minor crash may still be safe to use, but some car safety seat manufacturers recommend replacing the seat after any crash, even a minor one. The NHTSA considers a crash minor if all the following situations are true:

The vehicle could be driven away from the crash.
The vehicle door closest to the car safety seat was not damaged.
No one in the vehicle was injured.
The airbags did not go off.
You can't see any damage to the car safety seat.

If you have specific questions about the car seat, contact the manufacturer.

Front airbags are installed in all new cars. When used with seat belts, airbags work well to protect teenagers and adults; however, airbags can be very dangerous to children, particularly to those riding in rear-facing seats and to preschoolers and young school-aged children who are not properly restrained. If your vehicle has a front passenger airbag, infants in rear-facing seats must ride in the back seat. Even in a relatively low-speed crash, the airbag can inflate, strike the car safety seat, and cause serious brain injury and death.

Vehicles with no back seat or a back seat that is not made for passengers are not the best choice for traveling with small children; however, the airbag can be turned off in some of these vehicles if the front seat is needed for a child passenger. See your vehicle owner's manual for more information.

Side airbags are available in most new cars. Side airbags improve safety for adults in side-impact crashes. Read your vehicle owner's manual for more information about the airbags in your vehicle. Read your car safety seat instructions and the vehicle owner's manual for guidance on placing the seat next to a side airbag.

About carpooling

If your child is being driven by someone else, make sure:

The car safety seat your child will be using fits properly in the vehicle used for transport.
The car safety seat being used is appropriate for the age and size of your child.
The person in charge of transporting your child knows how to install and use the car safety seat correctly.

Child care programs and schools should have written guidelines for transporting children, including

All drivers must have a valid driver's license. In some states, school bus drivers need to have a special type of license.
Staff to child ratios for transport should meet or exceed those required for the classroom.
Every child should be supervised during transport, either by school staff or a parent volunteer, so the driver can focus on driving.
School staff, teachers, and drivers should know what to do in an emergency, know how to properly use car safety seats and seat belts, and be aware of other safety requirements.

About car safety seats on airplanes

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the AAP recommend that children less than 40 pounds be securely fastened in certified child restraints when flying. This will help keep them safe during takeoff and landing or in case of turbulence. Most rear-facing, convertible, and forward-facing seats can be used on airplanes , but booster seats and travel vests cannot.

Read your seat's instruction manual and look for a label on the car safety seat that says, "This restraint is certified for use in motor vehicles and aircraft." You can also consider using a restraint made only for use on airplanes and approved by the FAA. Larger children may use the airplane seat belt or continue to use their car safety seat on the airplane as long as it is labeled for use on aircraft and the child has not exceeded the seat's weight or height limit. Remember that your child will need an appropriate car safety seat to use at your destination. For more information, visit the FAA Website or the CARES (Airplane Safety Harness for Children) Website.

If you need installation help

If you have questions or need help with installing your car safety seat, find a certified child passenger safety technician (CPST or CPS technician). Lists of certified CPSTs and child seat–fitting stations are available on the following websites:

National Child Passenger Safety Certification (Click on "Find a Tech" or call 877-366-8154.) – Includes list of CPSTs fluent in Spanish and other languages or with extra training in transportation of children with special needs.
NHTSA Parents & Caregivers

Important reminders

Be a good role model. Make sure you always wear your seat belt. This will help your child form a lifelong habit of buckling up.

Make sure that everyone who transports your child uses the correct car safety seat or seat belt on every trip, every time. Being consistent with car safety seat use is good parenting, reduces fussing and complaints, and is safest for your child.

Never leave your child alone in or around cars, and lock your vehicle when it is not in use. Any of the following situations can happen when a child is left alone in or around a vehicle. A child can

Die of heatstroke because temperatures can reach deadly levels in minutes.
Be strangled by power windows, retracting seat belts, sunroofs, or accessories.
Knock the vehicle into gear, setting it into motion.
Be backed over when the vehicle backs up.
Become trapped in the trunk of the vehicle.

Always read and follow the manufacturer's instructions for your car safety seat. If you do not have those, write or call the company's customer service department. Staff will ask you for the model number, name of seat, and date of manufacture. The manufacturer's address and phone number are on a label on the seat. Also, be sure to follow the instructions in your vehicle owner's manual about using car safety seats. Some manufacturers' instructions may be available on their websites.

Remember to fill out and mail in the registration card that comes with the car safety seat. You can also register your seat on the manufacturer's website. It will be important in case the seat is recalled.

Follow manufacturer directions for cleaning car seats. Cleaning but not disinfecting is usually permitted. That's because disinfectant products may decrease the protection provided by the seat and harness.

More information

Ask the Pediatrician: Is it safe for my baby to travel in a car seat a few hours at a time?
Car Seats: Product Listing
Car Seat Checkup
Car Seats and Obese Children: Suggestions for Parents
Prevent Child Deaths in Hot Cars
Travel Safety During COVID-1 9

_{Although the AAP is not a testing or standard-setting organization, this article sets forth the AAP recommendations based on the peer-reviewed literature available at the time of its publication and sets forth some of the factors that parents should consider before selecting and using a car seat.}

_{Figure 1 adapted from US Department of Transportation, National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). LATCH Makes Child Safety Seat Installation as Easy as 1-2-3. Washington, DC: NHTSA; 2011. DOT HS publication 809 489.}

_{Figure 4 from Bull MJ, Engle WA; American Academy of Pediatrics Committee on Injury, Violence, and Poison Prevention and Committee on Fetus and Newborn. Safe transportation of preterm and low birth weight infants at hospital discharge.}_Pediatrics_{. 2009;123(5):1424–1429.}

The information contained on this Web site should not be used as a substitute for the medical care and advice of your pediatrician. There may be variations in treatment that your pediatrician may recommend based on individual facts and circumstances.

Rear-facing car seat for your child: safety tips and tricks

A rear-facing car seat is very important for your child. When it comes to traffic accidents, children are always at higher risk. spinal cord in an accident.

Your child's rear-facing car seat: safety tips and tricks

However, an infant or older child in a rear-facing car seat travels safely in a front-facing collision. The upper body, head, spine and neck are protected by the back of the car seat.

Studies have shown that children under two years of age sitting in the front seat of a car are more likely to be seriously injured in a frontal collision than children sitting in the back seat of a car.

Safety is paramount as a child in the back seat is a safe bet. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommend that both infants and young children stay facing backwards as much as possible.

Safety seats today are designed with height and weight restrictions in mind. This resulted in the rear seats being designed to last longer than before. Most children are now expected to sit in the back seats until they are 4 years old.

You need: child adjustment, developing children's ability to adapt and adapt to new situations

In this article

What is a rear-facing car seat?

Rear facing car seats are different from forward facing car seats. In a rear-facing car seat, your child's borders will be facing the back of the car. The rear will face the front of the car.

The main purpose of a car seat is to absorb some of the force of a collision and distribute the rest over a larger part of the body. Seat belts distribute the load on the body, hips and shoulders of adults. These are the strongest parts of the body. However, babies don't have parts strong enough to withstand the force.

The rear-facing car seat completely dissipates shock loads on the head, back and neck, reducing stress on any part of the body.

In an infant, the sensitive head is supported by the developing neck, and in such cases a rear-facing car seat helps. In addition, babies' bones and ligaments are not well developed, making them more susceptible to spinal cord injury than adults and older children.

A rear-facing car seat reduces this risk by supporting the child's head. A rear-facing car seat moves differently during a crash, giving your child a better chance of survival and less chance of injury.

In contrast, a front seat cannot absorb force and transfer much of it to the child, especially on the head and neck.

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Types of Rear Facing Car Seats

If you are looking for rear facing car seat recommendations, the guide below will help you make the right choice. You only want the best when it comes to your child and you don't want to compromise on safety.

Your child's rear-facing car seat: tips and advice on safety

There are three main types: rear-facing only, convertible and all-in-one. If a child reaches the manufacturer's maximum height and weight only in a rear-facing car seat, the child must be transferred to an all-purpose or convertible seat.

1.

Rear facing car seat only.

These seats are designed for children weighing up to 30 pounds (depending on model). He is small with arms. They come with a base that can be left in more than one vehicle. It is recommended to use only when traveling, not just for sleeping or breastfeeding.

2. Convertible

As the name suggests, they can be used as a rear-facing car seat and can be converted into a forward-facing car seat as the child grows. They are heavier without a base or handle. Fixed in the car. Most of them allow infants up to 40-50 lbs, as well as larger ones, making them suitable for infants and older children. The seats are equipped with 5-point harnesses that are attached to the shoulders, hips and between the legs. Suitable for travel use only.

3. All-in-one seats

This one serves three purposes - the rear seat. Forward-facing seat and seat belt positioning booster. It does not come with a carrying handle or base. They are larger and can accommodate babies up to 40-50 pounds and taller. This makes it ideal for babies and children and should be checked to see if it fits your vehicle.

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Why should parents choose a rear facing car seat?

It's tempting to put your child in a forward-facing car seat, but experts recommend keeping him or her in a rear-facing car seat as long as possible. Storing them in a rear-facing car seat reduces the risk of injury and keeps your child safe as much as possible. A few reasons to choose a rear seat for your child:

The belt in a rear-facing car seat must fit into the slots at or below the child's shoulders.
The car seat must be securely attached to the car with anchors or a fastened seat belt.
If you move the tape an inch, it is not tight enough.
If you are using a convertible or universal car seat, the seat belt or lower seat belt must be routed in the correct belt path.
Follow the instructions in the brochure. The belt should be tight and neat (no big gaps when testing on the shoulders), and the buckle should be in the middle of the chest.
The car seat must not be placed in the front seat with an active front passenger airbag. If inflated, it will hit the back of the car seat and the child's head, which could be fatal. Read the instructions and set the seat at the correct angle so that the child's head does not tilt forward.

When can I put my child in a rear facing car seat?

The AAP and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration recommend that infants and young children look backward as long as possible and in most cases until they are a few years old.

Rear-facing car seat for your child: recommendations and safety tips

How do I choose the right rear-facing car seat for my child?

Seat height and weight restrictions must be observed. You should check how the child is sitting in the seat. The head should be an inch below the top edge of the plastic shell. Most children will be tall in the seats until they reach the weight limit.

What should I do if my child's legs feel too long in the back of a car?

Legroom is limited when children are seated in an extended car seat. The baby's legs will be bent or crossed, which will make parents worry about their comfort. But experts say that if the child is within the established weight and height, he is safer and more comfortable.

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Should I turn the child seat forward when I pass the child car seat?

No, if your child outgrows the child seat, you will need a new car seat. Replace your rear-facing car seat with a convertible seat only.

Wait until they reach their maximum rear facing weight and until they are XNUMX years old to move them to the forward facing position. A three-in-one seat that functions as a back-forward, forward, and booster seat is perfect if your car can accommodate it.

Will my child be safe in a car accident from behind?

Research has tested many rear-facing car seats and found that, when properly used, they absorb the force of a rear-facing impact, thereby protecting the child's body parts.

Rear collisions are generally minor compared to frontal collisions and have minor consequences. Parents should not rush to move their children to the next type of seat. Progress should be gradual, and the safety of the child is paramount.

The transition is a difficult decision, which may turn out to be a step down instead of a step up. This should be a carefully thought out operation, balanced with safety precautions.

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Child Car Seat - (Complete Guide)

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Which car seat is right for your child? How do you install them? Do you need them or are seat belts enough? The safety of your child is extremely important. Child car seats ensure that your child is safe while traveling with you. Your child is constantly growing. This means that over time you will have to invest in different types of car seats to keep them comfortable and safe. This resource gives you a detailed overview of the different types of car seats, how to install them, as well as advice on seat placement, comfort, regulations, and more. Let's dive in.

Depending on the age, height and weight of your child, you will need to invest in different car seats. What types of car seats are most common? Here are some of the common seat types you will come across:

Car seats only against the direction of travel
Rear-facing convertible car seats
Convertible forward-facing seats
Additional seats

Car seats only against the direction of travel

From the first car ride home from the hospital, we recommend that babies only ride in rear-facing car seats. Rear-facing seats should be used for at least 2 years until your child exceeds the seat manufacturer's weight and height guidelines. The weight limit is usually between 22 and 35 pounds.

The main reason for using a rear-only seat is that the design absorbs some of the impact force in the event of a crash. Protection is necessary because babies have not yet developed enough to withstand shock loads. Babies have delicate necks and spinal cords, making them especially susceptible to whiplash. Rear-facing seats offer the best chance of survival.

Even if your child does not like to sit backwards, rear facing seats should be used for at least two years to ensure safety. Rear-facing seats offer statistically better results and can be of great help to your child in the event of an accident.

Many rear-facing seats come with a base that can be left in the car and the seat can be carried around. This allows the seat to be easily used in any vehicle with the seat base installed. If you have multiple vehicles, it is recommended that you install seat stands in each vehicle.

Convertible rear-facing seats

When your child is old enough to use them, rear-facing convertible seats are an improvement over rear-facing only seats. Toddlers often use rear-facing convertible seats around the age of two and continue to use them until after preschool. Rear-facing convertible seats can be used by children under two years of age, provided they are deployed in the rear-facing position only. Because they can convert between rear and forward-facing seats, rear-facing convertible seats are a great deal: you only need to buy one convertible seat instead of several non-convertible models.

More comfortable for your child, rear-facing convertible seats are larger and heavier than non-convertible seats. This makes it difficult for the parent or responsible person to carry the seat when leaving the vehicle. However, they provide a high level of child protection. The levels of protection come from a stronger frame that ensures these seats can take more force if the car is in an accident.

Although installation is often not as easy as with non-convertible seats, you can do it yourself without help. Being larger than usual, convertible seats also have more safety-focused features. For example, seats with a 5-point harness system provide secure support for the shoulders, hips and legs.

Different manufacturers will give you different weight and height recommendations for convertible seats. But the most important thing is the comfort and safety of your child. Continue to use rear-facing convertible seats if they are comfortable for your child.

Tips for installing rear-facing car seats

Most manufacturers offer two main ways to install rear-facing car seats: through the seat belts or through the LATCH system (lower anchorages and harnesses for children). The LATCH system is convenient. Here is how to install the LATCH seat:

Position the car seat rearward facing over the rear seat.
Make sure your LATCH cables line up with your vehicle's anchor points.
Reinstall the cables.

installation is easy because the LATCH systems attach to your car seat's LATCH straps with a simple click. Installation based on seat belts is often more complex. However, both options are equally safe. With some models, parents can use both systems at the same time to provide more protection.

What is LUTC?

LATCH is an attachment system that eliminates the need for seat belts when installing a car seat. Many vehicles built after 2002 have two sets of anchors for installing LATCH systems. These are the small rods on the rear seat cushions that the LATCHs can be attached to. Anchor vehicles usually come with attachments that can be used to attach LATCH cables to them.

What is LATCH Tethers? These are the straps that securely attach the car seat to the car seat mounts, keeping the seat in place. With a secure fit, the harnesses provide an extra layer of protection in the event of a crash by preventing your child's head from moving too fast, reducing the risk of whiplash.

The LATCH anchorage system has a longer strap at the top of the seat and lower LATCH anchorages are located at or near the base of the seat.

How do you decide whether to use a LATCH installation or a seatbelt installation? It depends if your vehicle is compatible with LATCH. As a general rule, most vehicles manufactured after 2002 have LATCH tethers installed. If your car was made after 2002, you will probably be able to use LATCH.

Another factor to consider is the combined weight of your child and car seat. LATCH systems work best with toddlers weighing 22 to 50 pounds. If you have an older toddler or use a heavier convertible seat, the LATCH system may not work on its own. Reinforcing the seat belt is a must.

Other considerations when installing rear-facing seats

When installing a convertible rear-facing seat, it is important to follow the installation instructions provided by the manufacturer. Also, do not add extra padding to the seat behind the child.

After installation, you need to check if the car seat moves more than one inch over the LATCH straps or the seat belt. If so, the seat is not firmly seated. You will need to refurbish it.

When the child is in the seat, be sure to tighten the strap around the child's shoulder and cross the child's legs so that the child's neck and spinal cord are not subjected to such force in the event of a collision.

Forward-facing convertible seats with seat belts

All rear-facing convertible seats can be converted to forward-facing convertible seats once your child outgrows this feature. Forward-facing convertible seats are often used by preschoolers and older. To use a forward-facing seat, your child must be at least two years old and weigh at least 30 pounds.

Forward-facing convertible seats can be used until your child is four years old and weighs about 80 lbs: the exact time of use depends on the manufacturer's weight and height specifications.

Many forward facing seats are equipped with seat belts. They provide an extra layer of security when your child is facing forward. Be sure to use the seat belt if it is part of the forward facing seat.

Many vehicles are now fitted with built-in forward facing seats. The same rules apply to them as to outer forward-facing seats: do not use them until your child has completely outgrown the rear-facing seat. Built-in forward-facing seats sometimes come with travel vests that can be worn by a child weighing up to 168 pounds. This provides another layer of protection when your child is in the front and can come in handy for years.

By the time they are ready for the forward-facing seats, your child may not like having to sit in a safety seat. It is important to talk to your child about safety and make sure they are ready to sit in a safe seat: your child grows and remains much more susceptible to injury in a car accident than adults.

Convertible Forward Seat Installation Tips

Here's what you need to do if you're buying a convertible seat for the first time:

Check your car and car seat manuals to make sure both are compatible. You also need to make sure your child is compatible! Check the weight and height data in the seat manual to make sure your child can sit comfortably in the seat.

If you already have a convertible seat and want to convert it to a forward-facing seat, here's what you need to do:

First, just turn the seat.
Reattach the seat to the LATCH harnesses.
Be sure to attach all straps, top and bottom, to make sure the seat is firmly seated. The lower strap by itself may not support the weight of the child.
If you do not have a top harness, be sure to fasten your seat belt. This will reduce the movement of the seat during travel and reduce the strain on your child's body.
The shoulder harnesses must be worn in such a way that they cover your child's torso when they are seated in the seat.
The harness should cover the front of the body and then cross the legs in such a way as to provide a snug yet comfortable fit.
A stopper can be used to adjust the tightness.
The seat angle t must also be adjusted so that it is in an upright position when the child is sitting on it.
Although not required, it is recommended that you use the seat belt with the seat belts.

Booster seats

Boosters are the last step in the hierarchy of safety seats. They are designed for children who have outgrown the size of a back-facing seat but are not quite ready to use the seat belt alone. You'll know it's time for a booster when your child's shoulders are above the seat belt slots or when their ears reach the top of the seat.

From backless to high back and combination seats, there are several different types of booster seats that parents can choose from. It is important to choose the one that will give your child the best possible protection.

Children typically start using booster seats at age 4 and will need them until they are eight to twelve years old or 4'9. Children should only be allowed to sit with a seat belt after they have crossed these important thresholds.

While some models come with limited harness options, most child seats do not attach directly to the vehicle. Instead, they wear a seat belt. This means that it is important to use the seat belt along with the booster seat. Instead of harnesses, booster seats usually come with shoulder and lap belts to protect your child's body from heavy loads.

If they don't come with seat belts, what's the point of using an extra seat? Seat belts do not provide optimal protection if your child is under 4 feet 9 inches tall. The boosters ensure that your child is raised to a level where they can be protected by the seat belts.

Tips for fitting child booster seats

Here's what you need to do when installing a booster:

Before installing a child seat, make sure it is compatible with your vehicle.
Then place the booster in the back seat of the car.
When your child is seated in the car seat, make sure the seat belt and lap belt are fastened securely.
Make sure that the waist belt fits snugly around the child's legs and that the chest belt covers the chest well.
Because most child seats are not directly attached to your vehicle, it is important to ensure that the seat belts are properly tensioned.

Have you installed the car seat yet? We have advice for you on a range of topics, from seating placement to comfort and safety rules. These tips ensure you get the most out of your child car seat, ensuring maximum safety, comfort and convenience.

Seat placement

Getting a good quality safety seat is a top priority. But it is equally important to make sure that the seat is properly installed in your vehicle. According to a recent study, children are 45% less likely to get injured if they sit in the middle than on their sides. The data also indicated that the central position was the safest but least preferred position. However, is the rear of the car always the best place to sit safely? Every year, more than 50 babies die due to the "forgotten child syndrome". This is where parents forget about cars, often with tragic consequences. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's "Look Before You Lock Up" campaign reminds parents to be vigilant.

While the fear of "forgotten child syndrome" may seem like a good reason to put your seats ahead, it's imperative that you don't. The front seats have airbags. When triggered, they put tremendous pressure on the front seat occupants, pushing them backwards to avoid a fatal blow from the crash. Most adults can deal with broken ribs and bruising from a deployed airbag. However, the same force is lethal to small children. Never put small children in the front seat. Put the safety seats in the back. Make sure your children are outside before locking the door.

Comfort

While your child's safety is a priority in a car seat, seat comfort is also an important factor. Your child will not like to ride in an uncomfortable seat - constant complaining can lead you to neglect safety in favor of comfort, which can lead to dangerous consequences. When it comes to comfort, the first thing to check is if the car seat is the right size for your child. Manufacturers produce safety seats with a wide range of characteristics in terms of weight and height. Make sure your child fits exactly the specified car seat specifications. If they are too large or too small for the seat, comfort and safety can be compromised. Here are a few key comfort factors to look out for:

Make sure the safety seat is soft and padded for comfortable cushioning.
When equipped, the side wings can act as impact protection and multi-point flexible harnesses to protect the child from sudden movements without being too tight in any one area.
Rear-facing seats require ample legroom so your child can ride comfortably for longer.
Children should ride reclining to keep their airways open. Recline the safety seat according to the manufacturer's instructions so that your child's head is at the optimal angle for comfortable breathing.
Some safety seats have features such as an adjustable head restraint to prevent your child's head from dropping forward, causing discomfort and increasing the risk of whiplash.
As your child grows, you will need to adjust the angle accordingly. Tilt adjusters are a handy feature on some safety seats that can help you with this.

Safety regulations

Child safety in vehicles is a legal requirement in all states. Most states have laws that define the age, weight, and height requirements for using various types of safety seats. This means that child safety seats are not just an option for greater safety: they are a legal requirement in most jurisdictions.

In addition to defining safety criteria for seats, many states have laws prohibiting rear-facing child restraints in the front seats next to an active airbag. This is because in rear-facing seats, the child's head is close to the airbag, which can result in serious head injury or death if the airbag deploys. Some vehicle models have a switch that turns the passenger seat airbag on or off when the safety seat is in use. You will need to check your local laws to make sure this is acceptable in your state. When a child is seated in a rear facing front seat, their head is in close proximity to the airbag. If the airbag deploys, it could result in injury or death.

Safety Seat Regulations are often found alongside other occupant safety regulations regarding ABS, mandatory airbags, and child lock requirements, all of which have a measurable impact on your child's safety in the vehicle.

Most jurisdictions also make crash testing mandatory. This means that your car seat model has most likely been extensively tested front, side, rear and rollover to ensure compliance. However, it's always a good idea to check with local laws and evaluate how your car seat fits.

Additional benefits

Like any other industry, the safety seat industry is driven by constant innovation. In today's market, it's not enough to have a conventional safety seat that complies with regulations. As a result, manufacturers have come up with many innovative safety seats to improve safety, comfort and convenience.

For optimum safety and comfort, many seat manufacturers equip seat belts with up to 5 contact points for a more comfortable and secure fit. These straps secure the head, shoulders, chest, hips and crotch. Reducing seat cushions provide head and body support for young children.

Because the safety seat frame is vital to providing support, many manufacturers offer reinforced safety seat frames. The steel reinforced frame provides strength and durability for years of use.

For maximum convenience, some manufacturers offer harness boxes with Fuss-Free harness storage. This keeps the buckle out of the way, making it easier for the child to get on and off. Manufacturers are also integrating double cup holders to safely store your child's drinks, snacks and toys.

Additional safety tips

There is so much more you can do to keep your child safe in the car. Let's take a look at additional car safety tips:

Bulky sweaters and blankets can often interfere with the child's seat belt. Remember to tighten the straps first and becomes cover the children with blankets to keep them warm.
It is important that the belt straps are taut. How do you know if the belt is tight enough? You should not be able to tear a properly tightened strap from your child's shoulder.
Another safety belt tip: Be sure to fasten your seat belts at the correct height. This ensures that your child is in a stable position and will remain safe in the event of a bumpy ride.
Always remember to use and both lap and shoulder belts with boosters, not just the lap belt. The lap belts should cross your child's hips, and the shoulder belts should rest on their shoulder and chest.

The expiration date is clearly marked on child car seats. Car seats typically expire six years from the date of manufacture. A sticker with a serial number, as well as the date of manufacture and expiration date hangs on each car seat. Make sure your car seat is new and has not expired.

Although it may be cheaper, we do not recommend buying a used seat. Used seats may be past their expiration date, may be worn out, or may be models that have been recalled due to safety risks. According to the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration), you need to replace your safety seats after moderate or severe crashes. This ensures that they continue to provide adequate protection for your child. Since it is not possible to determine the actual history of used car seats, used seats pose a significant safety risk. Always buy new safety seats.

Be sure to read the user manual for your car seat and follow all instructions. More than 95% of the installed safety seats are either not suitable for a child, or are loosely or incorrectly attached to the vehicle, hooked into a belt that is not compatible with the vehicle, or improperly placed in front of the airbags. Studies show that the majority of deaths are due to faulty safety seats or improper installation.

FAQ

Are child car seats safer than others?

Child safety seats are available in various price ranges. This may lead you to think that more expensive options will provide protection. However, this is not quite true. This is because all child safety seats on the market must meet Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards and pass rigorous crash tests. More expensive models may be more comfortable or offer additional features, but car seats on the market meet safety standards.

Is it safe to buy used car seats?

We strongly recommend that you do not purchase a used car seat. Unless you buy it from someone you know, you can never be 100% sure what a used seat went through. If it has been in a moderate or serious accident, it may not provide adequate protection for your child.

How long should rear-facing seats be used?

Make sure your child rides in a rear-facing safety seat until they are two years old. In many jurisdictions, this is a legal requirement. If your child is small for his age, it is recommended to keep him in the rear facing position until he outgrows his rear facing seat.

How long should I use boosters with older children?

Boosters can be used by children aged 6 to 12. This is a wide age range. This is because every child grows at a different rate. If your child is small for his age, he may need to stay longer in the child car seat. Make sure your child stays in the car seat until they are fully grown out of it.

How long is it safe to use the car seat continuously?

Infant studies show that seating in a car seat results in increased heart and breathing rates, implying higher levels of stress. We recommend taking breaks after two hours of driving so that your child has time to sit freely.

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