What you should know about child seats

 

There are many changes during childhood, and that includes child seat safety . If your children have outgrown their forward-facing car seats but are still too small to safely use the seat belt on their own, it's probably time for a booster seat. A booster seat raises your child several inches so the seat belt can be properly positioned across their body. This helps minimize your child's risk of injury in the event of a collision.

Why child booster seats are important

Child safety seats are important because properly fitted seat belts can save lives. However, since seat belts are designed for adults, smaller children are at risk of injury in an accident if the belt is not fitted correctly. By "lifting" the child up, the seat belt can be positioned more comfortably over the critical points of the shoulder, chest and lap.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), properly fitted seat belts reduce the risk of serious injury or death in crashes for older children by about half. Footnote ¹ Opens overlay Child safety seats are therefore an important safety feature that everyone who drives children should consider.

Age groups for the use of child booster seats

Knowing when to use a car seat for your younger passengers isn't an exact science. There's no set day when a child should transition from a forward-facing car seat to a booster seat. However, there are some safety guidelines and requirements to keep in mind.

At what age can a child use a booster seat?

Typically, booster seats are designed for children ages 7 to 12 who have outgrown their forward-facing car seats. However, every child is different. A child who is noticeably taller or shorter than others in their age group may need a different size seat than their peers.

For this reason, when deciding whether your child can use a booster seat, you should generally check the seat manufacturer's recommended weight and height requirements. It's also usually a good idea to know your state's minimum requirements for child seat use.

At what point can my child no longer use a booster seat?

Children typically outgrow a car seat between the ages of 9 and 12. This is usually the time when they can safely use a seat belt without being lifted up. As always, it's helpful to know the height and weight limits of the seat your child will be in, as well as any state laws.

Types of child booster seats

Child seats for your car are available in a variety of designs. From backless booster seats to all-in-one systems, there is a seat for almost every situation.

backless boosters

As the name suggests, a backless booster seat has no backrest, but does have armrests. These seats tend to be easier to move than booster seats with a high back. They can also be suitable for older or larger children who are on the verge of traveling with just a seatbelt.

booster seats with high backrest

This high-back seat is designed to cushion your child's head in the event of an impact. A high-back booster seat is often useful if your vehicle's rear seats do not have headrests or high backs. A high-back booster seat can also provide additional support in the event of a side impact.

combination seats

A combination seat, sometimes called a convertible booster seat, is initially a forward-facing seat. Once your child is old enough, it can be converted into a booster seat following the manufacturer's instructions.

all-in-one seats

An all-in-one seat serves three functions from infancy onwards. The all-in-one seat starts as a rear-facing seat, converts into a forward-facing unit and finally serves as a booster seat.

installation of a child booster seat

When installing a booster seat, it's best to follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully. Installation may vary from seat to seat, but booster seats are generally designed to use your child's weight to hold the seat in place, with the seat belt going over the child.

Some booster seats also feature the LATCH system (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) to make the seat even safer. With the LATCH system, the lower anchors are attached to small horizontal bars that are located between the seat cushion and the backrest of the car seat.

In addition to reading the manufacturer's installation instructions, you should also research the child seat requirements in your state or states. Some states even have services where you can take your car to a designated installation facility where they will install the seat for you. This can be especially helpful for new parents or guardians who need a little extra help.

Further considerations regarding booster seats

Child safety in the car involves more than just installing the booster seat. For example, you must first choose the right booster seat and properly fasten your child's seat belt.

Choosing a child booster seat

When choosing a car seat, safety is paramount. A little research can help you better understand your options. There is a wealth of information about booster seats available online. You can find product explanation videos and manufacturer safety data sheets, as well as comparison charts and other informative content. Customer reviews can also provide great insight into different booster seats.

If you are considering a used booster seat, you should check it carefully for signs of damage or aging, such as cracks or broken plastic. Can you be sure the seat has not been involved in any accidents? If you have any doubts or concerns, it is usually safer to be safe than sorry. Child car seats may also have expiration dates that should be checked.

fastening the seat belt

The seat belt should be tight and without twisting across your child's shoulder, chest and lap. It should never be over the face, neck, under the arm or behind the back. Some child seats have guides or plastic clips to help position the belt. It is best to check that your child is properly buckled in before setting off.

safety recalls

If your car seat is affected by a product safety recall, it is important to follow all manufacturer instructions to correct the problem. Completing and submitting the registration card that comes with the seat at time of purchase will help you receive safety notifications promptly.

In summary

Car seats help children transition more safely from a forward-facing car seat to using a seat belt exclusively. Understanding how to properly use a car seat according to the manufacturer's instructions and your state's requirements is the first step in the next phase of your child's development.

source : What to Know About Child Booster Seats | Chase