If you’re pregnant and you’re looking for a car seat to use while your child is still in a car seat, Graco has a great option available. The Graco SnugRide 35-inch tall car seat can be turned into a booster seat! What is the difference between a car seat and a booster seat? A car seat is designed to be used in a vehicle, typically from birth until the child reaches the maximum weight or height for theirseat belt. A booster seat is designed to be used from approximately 2 years old until the child reaches the age of 8 or 9 years old, at which time they should use a standardcar seat. Booster seats are not law in all states and can only be used with seats that have an appropriate belt fitment.
How to turn a Graco car seat into a booster seat
If you’re thinking of using your Graco car seat as a booster seat, here are four tips to get started:
1. Make sure the car seat is configured for use as a booster. Most Graco car seats have a switch that can be pulled to make them boosters, and many models include an adapter so you can use them without changing the seat. If your car seat doesn’t have this switch or adapter, check the manufacturer’s instructions.
2. Make sure your child is tall enough for a booster seat. Most Graco car seats fit children from 4–8 years old, but the height requirement varies by model. Check the manufacturer’s instructions for more information about how to measure your child’s height and find a booster that fits.
3. Get yourself some extra padding. Many parents find it helpful to add some padding or foam to the bottom of their child’s booster seat to make it more comfortable and secure in the car. This is especially important if your child is smaller or lighter than average and tends to shift around in their seat while driving. You can also buy padded inserts that go into most boosters; just be sure to measure your child before purchasing one so that it will fit properly.
4. Install your booster in the rear-facing position first and adjust it as needed until it feels snug and stable—but not too tight—on your child’s backside.
How to adjust the straps
If your child is using a car seat that has straps, you can adjust them to make the car seat fit better for your child. Graco provides instructions on how to adjust the straps of their car seats. The instructions vary depending on the model of Graco car seat. Some steps include pulling up on one or both straps, pushing down on one or both straps, and moving the strap anchor points up or down.
Tips for using the booster
If you’re using a Graco car seat to convert to a booster, here are a few tips:
1. Make sure the car seat is in the correct position on your vehicle. The back of the car seat should be against the back of the front seat, and the shoulder straps should be adjusted so that they’re snug but not too tight.
2. Locate the safety belts for your child. The best place for them is usually in the middle of their chest, just above their collarbone. You may need to adjust them depending on their size and weight.
3. Insert and tighten the belt into the buckle. Be sure not to pinch or stretch the child’s neck or body as you do this.
4. Place your hands on either side of your child’s head and pull it forward until it snaps into place inside the restraint device. Make sure there’s plenty of slack in both straps so they won’t be too tight when you use them as a booster later on (small children need more slack than adults).
Conclusion
What to do if your Graco car seat won’t fit in the back of your car? If you have a Graco car seat that is at least 2 years old, it may not be able to convert into a booster seat. The good news is that Graco has released a new model of its carseat called the Breeze which can be converted into a booster seat. The Breeze has an adjustable harness and uses less energy than other models making it more environmentally friendly. If you are interested in purchasing the Breeze, or if you have any questions about converting your current Graco car seat into a booster, feel free to contact us. We would be happy to help!