Car seats fit babies from about 5 to 40 pounds. That’s a little over 2,000 different combinations. So, what do you do when your big kid isn’t a perfect fit for the car seat you bought? The good news is that there are plenty of options out there. In this blog post, we will explore some of the different ways to get your big kid safely strapped into his or her car seat. From convertible seats and booster seats to harnesses and tether anchors, we will show you just how versatile car seats can be.
Why kids need their own car seats
Kids need their own car seats for various reasons. They’re safest when sitting in their own seat, as opposed to being bounced around in a vehicle and can also limit how much the driver can do while driving. Car seats are also important for toddlers because they reduce the risk of them getting injured in a car accident. Toddlers should always be accompanied by an adult when using a car seat, even if the child is just visiting family or going to a friend’s house.
Tips for buying a car seat for a big kid
When you’re shopping for a car seat for a big kid, there are some things to keep in mind.
Here are five tips to help you buy the best car seat for your big kid:
1. Fit is key. Make sure the car seat fits your child properly. A car seat that’s too small will not protect your child and may even cause injuries.
2. Consider the weight and height of your child. A car seat that’s too large or heavy will be difficult to move around and may be dangerous if it falls off the vehicle during a crash.
3. Be sure the car seat is approved by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). Car seats that are not approved can be unsafe and may not meet safety standards set by NHTSA.
4. Be sure to get acarseat “activation” kit if you want to use the car seat in more than one vehicle. This kit includes an identification card, safety booklet, and instruction sheet specific to your make and model of car.
5. Use a second opinion when buying a car seat for a big kid. Talk to other parents who have children of similar ages so you can get an idea of what size and weight will fit well in different brands of seats
How to install a car seat for a big kid
There are a few things to keep in mind when installing a car seat for a big kid. First and foremost, make sure the seat is properly secured in the vehicle. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration recommends using LATCH or tethers in rear-facing seats for children ages 1-4, and 5-8 for kids 8 and up. Second, find an appropriate car seat for your child’s weight and size. Some car seats are designed for smaller children but may not be safe or comfortable for larger kids. Third, consult with your child’s pediatrician before purchasing a car seat. Finally, remember that no one size fits all when it comes to car seats.
Conclusion
Just because a child reaches the weight and height milestones that designate big kid status doesn’t mean they’re ready to start using a regular car seat. In fact, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), an average-size 4-year-old is not even tall enough to use a convertible car seat until they are about 54 inches tall and weigh 33 pounds. Until your child reaches this height and weight, it’s safest for them stay in their infant or toddler car seat.