Rear-facing car seats are the safest option for children. They prevent forward-facing car seats from becoming a death trap. But when do you stop rear-facing? The answer is a little complicated, as it depends on a child’s weight, height and age. However, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends that children stop Rear Facing at 2 years old or when they reach the height of 4 feet 9 inches tall. So, what does this mean for you? It means that in the next few years, you may need to make some decisions about your child’s car seat. Are they ready to switch to a forward-facing seat? When will they be ready to stop Rear Facing? Let us help you figure it all out.
When should a child stop using rear-facing car seats?
When should a child stop using rear-facing car seats?
Rear-facing car seats are designed to be used until a child reaches the weight or height limit specified by the manufacturer. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends that children no longer use rear-facing car seats when they reach about 4’9″ or 115 pounds. For children between 4’9″ and 5’6″, the AAP recommends that they use rear-facing car seats until they reach 44 inches tall or 122 pounds. For children between 5’6″ and 6’2″, the AAP recommends that they use rear-facing car seats until they reach 50 inches tall or 125 pounds.
The Pros and Cons of Rear-Facing Car Seats
Rear-facing car seats are popular with parents because they are believed to protect infants from injuries in a crash, but experts say there is no evidence that they actually do. The pros and cons of rear-facing car seats are as follows:
PRO: Rear-facing car seats are believed to protect infants from injuries in a crash.
CON: There is no evidence that they actually do.
What to do if Your Child is Still Rear Facing in Their Car Seat Age
If your child is still rear facing in their car seat age, there are a few things you can do to help ensure their safety. Rear facing seats offer more protection from injuries in a crash than forwardfacing seats, and until your child is at least 1 year old, they should remain rear facing as long as possible.
Once your child reaches 1 year old, they are ready to switch to a forward facing car seat. If your child has not yet reached 1 year old, always use the safest restraint for the weight and height of your child.
How to Convert a Rear-Facing Car Seat to a Front-Facing Car Seat
When rear-facing, a car seat’s angle of recline provides the best fit for your growing child. A front-facing car seat, on the other hand, should only be used if your child is too large or too tall for a rear-facing car seat. Use the guidelines below to determine when your child should switch to a front-facing car seat.
Age Limits: Rear facing until your child reaches at least 2 years old and 4 years old weighing 25 pounds or less.
Height Limits: Rear facing until your child reaches at least 44 inches tall or 32 inches tall with the use of a higher back booster.
Weight Limits: Rear facing until your child exceeds 65 pounds or 40 pounds with the use of a higher back booster seat.
Conclusion
It is important to make the decision to stop rear facing as early as possible so that your child’s development doesn’t suffer. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends stopping rearfacing at age 2, but there are lots of factors to consider when making this choice, including your child’s weight and height. It is always best to talk with your doctor or pediatrician about the best time to stop Rear Facing Your Car Seat.