As moms, we know that car seats are important for our children. But when do you actually start using them? There’s a lot of advice out there about when to introduce a child to a car seat, but most of it revolves around the idea of “when they can sit in a standard seatbelt position.” But is that really when you should start using a car seat?
The truth is, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer to this question. In fact, different parents will have to weigh different factors in order to decide when their child is ready to use a car seat. But as a general rule of thumb, you should start using a front-facing car seat when your child reaches the following milestones: He or she is at least 20 pounds; has reached the weight and height limits for the car seat manufacturer’s size range; and can sit with good posture in a regular chair without help.
When to use a rear-facing car seat
Rear-facing car seats are designed for babies who are not yet able to sit up and reach their feet over the edge of the car seat. Rear-facing seats provide better protection in the event of a collision since they’re positioned closer to the center of the vehicle. Young children should remain rear-facing until they reach at least age 2, and always use safety belts even in a rear-facing seat.
When to Use a Forward-Facing Car Seat
There is no one answer to this question since it depends on your child’s age, weight and size. However, typically you should begin using a forward-facing car seat when your child reaches maximum height and weight or can sit up unassisted. Some parents choose to use their car seat from the time their baby is born until they reach 4 or 5 months old; others wait until their baby can sit up without assistance. You should always consult with a doctor or pediatrician before making any decisions about car seat usage.
When to Move to a Convertible Car Seat
According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, a convertible car seat should be used from birth until at least 30 pounds, or 18 months old. If your child reaches 30 pounds or 18 months old and is still not using a convertible car seat, it may be time to consider moving up to a forward-facing car seat.
When to Use a Backup Car Seat
When using a backup car seat, make sure it is the correct size for your child and fits them properly in the vehicle. Make sure the strap is tight enough so that your child is not able to move around or adjust their position in the seat. Also, make sure there is plenty of padding and cushioning in the back and sides of the seat to ensure a comfortable ride.
Conclusion
When you’re shopping for car seats, it’s important to understand when and how you should use your front facing car seat. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), a child under the age of 1 years old should never be placed in a forward-facing car seat if they are shorter than 22 inches tall, or weigh less than 40 pounds. Children who are between 1 and 4 years old should only be using a rear-facing car seat until they reach 59 inches tall, or weight 44 pounds. After that, children can use either a forward-facing or rear-facing car seat as long as it meets the manufacturer’s guidelines for height and weight.