Booster seats are a necessary piece of child safety equipment. They provide a secure and comfortable place for your child to sit during road trips, as well as car rides. When it comes to choosing the right age to use a booster seat, however, there are many factors to consider. This article provides an overview of those factors and explains when you should start using a booster seat.
When should a child use a booster seat?
There is no one definitive answer when it comes to choosing when a child should start using a booster seat. However, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends that children use a booster seat until they are at least 4 feet 9 inches tall and weigh 40 pounds or less. The AAP also says that parents should regularly check their child’s height and weight to make sure they’re still in need of a booster seat.
Types of boosters
There are many types of boosters and each has its own benefits and drawbacks. The following is a brief overview of the most common types of boosters and their uses.
Booster Seats
These seats are designed to be used with car seats that do not have a built-in booster seat. They typically attach to the car seat via straps, making them easier to use than traditional booster seats. They often come with an extra set of straps so you can use them as regular seats in the event that your child outgrows the booster size before their car seat reaches its expiration date.
Some booster seats also have harnesses that can be used to help keep your child secure in the seat during a crash. Many booster seats come in a variety of colors and styles, allowing you to find one that suits your needs and looks good in your car.
Booster Cushions
These cushions are typically made from foam or fabric and are placed between your child’s legs while they’re seated in a car seat. They provide extra padding and support, which can help prevent injuries in case of a crash. Booster cushions can also be used as regular pillows when your child is not in a car seat for comfort reasons.
Booster SeatDocks
This type of booster seat is similar to a dock for iPad or iPhone. It has spaces for both the car seat and the booster cushion, which makes it easy to switch between using the two devices
How to choose the right booster seat
When choosing a booster seat, there are a few factors to consider. The first is the size of the child. The second is the weight and height of the child. The third is the type of car you drive. Here are some tips on how to choose the right booster seat for your child:
1. Size-The first, and most important, factor to consider when selecting a booster seat is the size of your child. Your child’s height and weight will determine which booster seat will fit them best. Some booster seats go up to 50 pounds, but others only go up to 30 pounds. Make sure to find out what size booster seat your child needs before making any purchases!
2. Weight and Height-Another important factor to consider when selecting a Booster Seat is the weight and height of your child. Most Booster Seats range in weight from 5-35 pounds and in height from 20”- 48” inches tall.* If you have a heavier or taller child, they may need a larger or taller booster seat than what will fit in their car’s lap belt location.*
3. Car Type-There are three types of cars children typically ride in: frontal-mounted cars ( Hatchbacks/Small Sedans ), rear-mounted cars ( SUVs/Luxury Cars ), and side-by-side or “3rd row” seating cars (Large Sedans ). Each car has its own set of criteria
When do infants outgrow their booster seats?
Infants outgrow their booster seats when they can sit up and pull themselves to a standing position unassisted, typically around 18 months old. For safety, always keep an eye on your infant and make sure they are safe and comfortable in their seat.
Use while carpooling
booster seats are not just for infants. In fact, most standard car seats fit children from 4 to 8 years old. However, booster seats can provide additional protection for smaller children who still cannot fit in a standard car seat. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends using a booster seat until a child is at least 4 foot 9 inches tall, reaches the top of the child restraint system’s shoulder belt, or weighs 40 pounds.
When traveling
When traveling, it is important to use a booster seat for your baby. A booster seat will help put your baby in a safer position in the car and can protect them from serious injuries in the event of a crash. There are different age ranges when using a booster seat. For babies up to 18 months old, a convertible car seat can be used as a booster. From 18 to 24 months old, a child should use an approved high-back safety seat with a shoulder belt. A child between 2 and 4 years old should use either an adult-sized or child-sized safety chair with a lap belt, and 5 to 7 years old should use an adult-sized safety chair with both lap and shoulder belts. You should consult with your pediatrician for more information on specific age ranges for booster seats.
Conclusion
In the event of an accident, it is always best to be prepared. That means being aware of which booster car seat is best for your age and weight. By following some simple guidelines, you can ensure that your child stays safe during a car ride.