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The correct car seat is absolutely essential to keep children protected when they are on the road in your vehicle. A car seat isn't a one-time purchase, either – what works for an infant likely isn't going to be right for a toddler. And what's best for a toddler won't be ideal for a school-aged child. Seats vary based on a child's age and size and are expected to be used until approximately age 10 to 13.
It's essential to understand the safety features and guidelines that are most appropriate for your child throughout all phases.
Age and Size Guidelines
In general, the kind of car seat, the direction of a car seat, and the scale of a car seat depends largely on three key factors: the phase of life, age, and weight of a child.
There's no hard and fast rule for when to transition from one car seat to another. Some children may be under 65 pounds and 57 inches at age 12, for example, while others will pass this weight at age nine.
In general, however, the American Academy of Pediatrics provides guidelines and answers key questions for parents/guardians about car seats. Here are four notable items about infants, toddlers/preschoolers and school-aged children:
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), a child should continue to use a booster seat until they are able to use an adult seat belt properly. For a seat belt to fit properly, the lap belt should sit snuggly across the upper thighs. And the shoulder belt should be snug across the shoulder and chest. The shoulder strap should not cross the neck or face. No child under age 13 should ever ride in the front seat of a car.
Car-Seat Placement in the Vehicle
The safest place for a child is in the middle of the back seat. Since this is not an option in many cars, either the right or left side of the back seat is adequate. Car-seat manufacturers’ guides are the most accurate place to find installation and safety details.
Some car seats are convertible. This means a parent can switch them from back facing to front facing, and then to a booster seat. Others only serve one purpose. As a parent, it's up to you to research options and choose the best one for your lifestyle. Many guides exist about the kinds, brands, and reputations of car seats available, so be sure to research thoroughly before making a call. Note that some car seats do get recalled for safety issues, so make sure you are aware of the status of your chosen seat at all times.
Car Seat Laws by State
Car seat laws vary from one state to another, with different rules based on age, weight, seat type, and more. As a parent, understanding these policies is critical to ensuring your child is as safe as possible – while assuring you meet your legal requirements. The American Automobile Association (AAA) catalogs state regulations for child passenger safety. Prior to purchasing a child-safety seat, check what’s required where you live.
It's essential to understand the safety features and guidelines that are most appropriate for your child throughout all phases.
Age and Size Guidelines
In general, the kind of car seat, the direction of a car seat, and the scale of a car seat depends largely on three key factors: the phase of life, age, and weight of a child.
There's no hard and fast rule for when to transition from one car seat to another. Some children may be under 65 pounds and 57 inches at age 12, for example, while others will pass this weight at age nine.
In general, however, the American Academy of Pediatrics provides guidelines and answers key questions for parents/guardians about car seats. Here are four notable items about infants, toddlers/preschoolers and school-aged children:
- Infants should sit in a rear-facing seat until 2 years of age or until the recommended age or size as recommended by the manufacturer.
- Toddlers and preschoolers should transition into a front-facing seat with a full harness.
- School-aged children who have met manufacturer weight limits, are 8-12 years old, or who are at least 4 feet 9 inches should sit in a belt-positioning booster seat.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), a child should continue to use a booster seat until they are able to use an adult seat belt properly. For a seat belt to fit properly, the lap belt should sit snuggly across the upper thighs. And the shoulder belt should be snug across the shoulder and chest. The shoulder strap should not cross the neck or face. No child under age 13 should ever ride in the front seat of a car.
Car-Seat Placement in the Vehicle
The safest place for a child is in the middle of the back seat. Since this is not an option in many cars, either the right or left side of the back seat is adequate. Car-seat manufacturers’ guides are the most accurate place to find installation and safety details.
Some car seats are convertible. This means a parent can switch them from back facing to front facing, and then to a booster seat. Others only serve one purpose. As a parent, it's up to you to research options and choose the best one for your lifestyle. Many guides exist about the kinds, brands, and reputations of car seats available, so be sure to research thoroughly before making a call. Note that some car seats do get recalled for safety issues, so make sure you are aware of the status of your chosen seat at all times.
Car Seat Laws by State
Car seat laws vary from one state to another, with different rules based on age, weight, seat type, and more. As a parent, understanding these policies is critical to ensuring your child is as safe as possible – while assuring you meet your legal requirements. The American Automobile Association (AAA) catalogs state regulations for child passenger safety. Prior to purchasing a child-safety seat, check what’s required where you live.
