In the past few years, car seats have come under heavy fire for their potential to cause long-term damage to infants and toddlers. Many parents have decided that it’s not worth the risks, and have switched to using boosters or using car seats without a harness. While there are certainly risks associated with using either of these methods, it’s crucial to weigh them against the benefits. In this blog post, we will provide you with the information you need to make an informed decision about whether or not to use a car seat for your toddler.
Toddler facing forward in car seat
Toddlers should face forward in car seats until they are at least 2 years old and 4 feet 9 inches tall. Once they reach this height, they can start facing sideways in the car seat.
What to look for when buying a car seat for a toddler
When you are shopping for a car seat for your toddler, there are a few things to look for. First, make sure the car seat is appropriate for your child’s age and weight. Second, make sure the car seat can be easily installed in your vehicle. Finally, make sure the car seat has safety features such as a built-in safety belt system and impact protection.
Forward-facing car seats for toddlers
Toddlers should always be seated in a forward-facing car seat until at least age 2, even if they are shorter than the car seat’s minimum height requirement. Forward-facing seats reduce the risk of injury in a crash by positioning the child farther from the side impact forces. Toddlers who are taller than average may still be safer riding in a rear-facing car seat until age 2 or 3 because their head and upper body will still be below the level of the seatback in a crash.
There are several types of forward-facing car seats for toddlers on the market. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends using a convertible car seat with harnesses until your child weighs 22 pounds. At that point, your child can use either a convertible or SnugRide convertible car seat without harnesses. For older children, AAP recommends using an infant-toddler style car Seat belt unless your child is taller than 44 inches (1 meters). Children who weigh more than 50 pounds (23 kg) should use an adult-sized front- or rear- facing safety belt system and an appropriate booster seat.
When you install your toddler’s new forward-facing car seat, make sure to read and follow all instructions provided by the manufacturer. Be sure to regularly check your child’s position in the seat and adjust it as needed to ensure they are as safe as possible in case of a crash.
Back-facing car seats for toddlers
Back-facing car seats are designed to keep toddlers more comfortable and safe in the back of a car. These seats protect them from headrests, air bags, and other moving objects while they’re riding in the car. Because they face backwards, toddlers can’t reach any of these dangers while they’re seated in a back-facing car seat.
Some parents prefer back-facing seats because they think that their child will be safer this way. Back-facing seats reduce the chance of head injuries in a crash by up to 71%. As your toddler grows, you may want to switch him or her to a forward-facing car seat for increased protection in a crash. But keep in mind that most back-facing car seats should last until your child is about 3 years old or taller.
Conclusion
When does a toddler start to face forward in their car seat? The AAP recommends that children ride facing forward as soon as they are able to sit unaided, which is typically around 2-3 years old. However, this is not an absolute rule and there may be some exceptions based on your child’s size, age and development. If you have any questions about when your child is ready to start facing forward in their car seat, don’t hesitate to ask your doctor or pediatrician.