When it comes to car safety, one of the most important things you can do is install a car seat in the middle of your vehicle. Not only is this the safest place for your child, but it’s also the least likely place for them to be injured in a car accident. There are, of course, some exceptions to this rule. If your car has a high seating position or if your child is too large for a traditional car seat, you may want to consider putting them in the backseat. However, as long as you’re aware of the risks and follow all the guidelines set out by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), installing a car seat in the middle should be your go-to choice.
What are the Pros and Cons of Putting Your Car Seat In the Middle?
There are pros and cons to putting your car seat in the middle of the backseat. The biggest pro is that it’s easier to get into and out of the vehicle. The downside is that it can be more difficult to see if there’s an emergency situation, and you may have to move the car seat around a lot.
What to do if Your Child Doesn’t Like Sitting In the Middle
If your child doesn’t like sitting in the middle of their car seat, there are a few things you can do. One option is to put the car seat in the backseat instead. Another option is to try moving around more often so that your child has a variety of seating experiences. You can also try putting a blanket or toy in the car seat with them to make it more comfortable for them.
Tips for Installing a Car Seat in the Middle
There are a few things to keep in mind when installing a car seat in the middle of a vehicle. The best position for a car seat depends on the child’s age, weight and size.
For newborns and small babies, place the car seat in the rear facing position. This will help reduce the risk of head injuries in case of a crash. As your baby grows and starts to move around more, you can switch them to a forward-facing car seat. For children between 1 and 2 years old, use a rear-facing car seat with an insert for height or add another layer of protection by using a convertible car seat. For children between 2 and 4 years old, use either a forward-facing or rear-facing car seat without an insert for height. Children between 4 and 7 years old should use either a forward-facing or booster seat without an insert for height, but should also use an adult-sized belt if riding in the backseat of the vehicle. Finally, for children over 7 years old, use either a booster or full-sizecar seat without an insert for height.
Conclusion
One of the most common questions parents ask is whether or not they should put their car seat in the middle of the backseat. The truth is, it really depends on your child’s age and size. If your child is under 4 years old and weighs less than 50 pounds, a car seat should always be placed in the center of the backseat. If your child is 4 years old or older and weighs 50 pounds or more, but less than 80 pounds, place their car seat in the far right rear corner of the backseat. Lastly, if your child is 8 years old or older and weighs 80 pounds or more, place their car seat in the center of the backseater.