Kids grow up so fast. We go from being sealed in a car seat for hours on end to being able to walk and do everything else. But what happens when they outgrow their car seats? In the past, parents have had to either buy a new car seat or risk their child not being safe in a car. But now there’s an easier way: using a convertible car seat.
Convertible car seats allow you to use your current car seat until your child outgrows it, at which point you can convert it into a toddler car seat. This way, you won’t have to spend extra money buying two different types of car seats and you won’t have to worry about your child not being safe in a new car.
When To Turn A Car Seat Around
It’s important to always check the car seat manufacturer’s instructions for turning your car seat around as these may differ depending on the make of your car. Generally speaking, you should turn a car seat around when your child reaches the maximum weight or height limit specified by the manufacturer, typically at about 18 months old or 4 years old, whichever comes first.
If you’re ever in any doubt as to whether or not you should turn the car seat around, err on the side of caution and consult your car seat manufacturer’s instructions.
Factors That Influence When To Turn A Car Seat Around
When should a car seat be turned around? There are many factors that influence when to turn a car seat around. It is important to remember that it is always best to consult with a pediatrician or other health professional if you have any questions about when your child should be turned around in their car seat. Some general guidelines to follow include:
-If the child is younger than 1 year old, the car seat should always remain facing forward.
-If the child is between 1 year and 3 years old, they may be able to hold their own head up and sit in a rear-facing car seat for shorter trips, but should be rotated every three months for long trips.
-Between 3 and 6 years old, most children can hold their own head up and sit in a front-facing car seat for short trips, but should continue to rotate every six months for long trips.
-After 6 years old, children can generally stay in the same position in the carseat unless there is a safety concern.
Car Seat Safety Tips For When To Turn A Car Seat Around
Most car seats should be turned around once the child reaches the maximum height or weight limit for their seat, which is about 40 inches long and 20 pounds. However, there are some exceptions. If your car has a detachable rear-facing convertible seat, it should be turned around when the child weighs more than 25 pounds and is at least 35 inches tall. And if you have a forward-facing convertible seat that can recline all the way back, the seat should be turned around when the child is at least 22 months old and 4 feet 11 inches tall.