Car Safety Seat

Children Undoing Buckles

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Some children go through a phase of constantly slipping out of the child seat harness or seat belt, or releasing the buckle, during journeys. This is extremely worrying for parents and very frustrating - once a child has learnt how to do this, it is very difficult to stop them. The good news is that it usually seems to be a phase which they grow out of.

Although it is possible to buy 'anti-tampering' devices to stop children undoing their seat belts, RoSPA does not recommend any device, which affects the working either of a seat belt, or of the fastening mechanism. It may reduce the effectiveness of the seat belt in an accident (causing more injuries to the child), and could also be difficult to undo in an emergency.

The following points may help to stop your child undoing their seat belt:

Ensure the child knows WHY they are required to wear a seat belt, i.e. it keeps them safe from harm
Depending on the age of the child, make 'doing up the belt' into a chant or song, which the child will enjoy participating in
Show the child that you have to wear a seat belt also - perhaps you can both sing or chant as you are doing up your own belt too
Do not start the engine until you are sure that the child is wearing a seat belt correctly AND that your belt is correctly fastened (perhaps this could form part of a game also - ask the child if everyone in the car is belted up and whether it's OK to drive off)
If possible (e.g. on a leisure trip, or a trip to friends), tell the child that you cannot take them if their belt is not done up - as you don't want any harm to come to them
If the child undoes the belt during the journey, pull over as soon as it is safe to do so and repeat that the belt must be done up to save them from being hurt
If the child repeatedly unfastens the seat belt because they are restless and bored, distract them by 'I-Spy' games through the windows, songs, which they are able to join in with, toys and games that they are able to play with in the car. Please remember though that it is most important for the driver NOT to be distracted by these activities

The most important thing to remember is to be CONSISTENT. ALWAYS insist that your child is wearing a seat belt. DO NOT give in by letting the child travel without a seat belt being fastened safely around them - not only are you legally required to do this (you can be prosecuted if you do not), but you will be placing your child at risk of serious injury or death if your vehicle is involved in an accident. It will also be more difficult to insist that the child wears their seatbelt next time they are in the car.

Second-hand Child Seats

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The best advice is do not buy a second-hand child seat.

You cannot be certain of its history. It may have been involved in an accident and the damage may not be visible. Very often the instructions are missing from second-hand seats which makes it more difficult to be sure that you are fitting and using it correctly.

Second-hand seats are also likely to be older, to have suffered more wear and tear and may not be designed to current safety standards.

It is far better to buy a new child seat. Prices range dramatically, and it is not necessary to buy the most expensive one. Ask your local Road Safety Department (part of your Council) whether they know of any child seat discount schemes.

If you must use a second-hand seat, only accept one from a family member or friend (don't buy one from a second-hand shop or through the classified ads) and then only if you are absolutely certain that you know its history, it comes with the original instructions and it is not too old.

Before you agree to accept the seat:

Examine it carefully for damage (but remember, not all damage to child seats is visible to the naked eye).
Make sure the manufacturer's instructions are available.
Check the manufacturer's advice about how old the seat should be before it needs to be replaced.
Make sure the seat is suitable for your child's weight and height.
Try the seat in your car - if you cannot get it to fit securely, do not buy it.
Check that the seat meets the United Nations standard Regulation 44.03 or 44.04 - look for the 'E' mark.

Child Seat Instructions

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To ensure that child car restraints are fitted and used properly, it is essential that the manufacturer's instructions are followed.

Many people do not like reading instruction booklets, preferring to use 'trial and error', but you risk your child being injured if you do not follow the instructions when fitting the restraint.

It is best to keep the instruction booklet with the seat in the car. Many child seats have a pocket for this purpose.

If you have lost the instructions, contact the manufacturer and ask if it is possible to get a copy. Some manufacturer's publish their instructions on their website.

Be particularly careful if you obtain a second-hand seat and make sure it comes with the instructions.

Buying a Child Seat : Checklist

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When choosing a new child seat, it is essential to ensure that it fits in your car (or cars if you use it in more than one) and is suitable for your child.

See Choosing and Using Child Seats for further advice and Links for advice about specific seats.

You can also obtain information about the safety performance of some seats from surveys conducted by magazines such as "Which", "What Car" and "Mother and Baby". Some seats are tested in the European New Car Assessment Programme (EURO NCAP), so where possible choose a child seat that has scored well in their tests.

Use this checklist to help you select the child seat that is most suitable for your child and your vehicle(s).

Is the child seat suitable for my child?
It is essential that the child restraint is suitable for your child. Check the packaging before you buy.

My Child's Weight and Age	Suitable Restraint
Child weighing up to 10kg (22 lbs) roughly from birth to 6 -9 months	Rearward-facing Baby Seat (Group 0)
Child Weighing up to 13kg (29lbs), roughly from birth to 12-15 months	Rearward-facing Baby Seats (Group 0+)
Child weighing 9 - 18 kgs (20 - 40 lbs), roughly from 9 months - 4 years	Forward-facing child seat (Group 1)
Child weighing 15 - 25 kgs (33 - 55 lbs), roughly aged from 4 - 6 years	Forward-facing child seat or/ booster seat (Group 2)
Child weighing 22 - 36 kgs (48 - 79 lbs), roughly from 6 - 11 years	Booster cushion (Group 3)

Many child car seats fit into more than one of these Groups.

Is the child seat suitable for my child?

Yes

Is the child seat suitable for my car(s)?
The shape of car seats, the length of seat belts and the position of seat belt anchor points differ between cars. So, not all child seats fit all cars. For instance, the seat belt in a particular car may be too short to go around a certain child seat. It is essential to check that the child seat you purchase will fit in your car and that it will fit in all the seat positions you intend to use it. The manufacturer and retailer should advise you.

Does the child seat fit on the front passenger seat?	Yes	No
Does the child seat fit on the rear side seats?	Yes	No
Does the child seat fit on the rear middle seat?	Yes	No

How helpful is the retailer?
Some retailers are very knowledgeable about child restraints, others are not. Try to find a retailer who will let you try the seat in your car first and who will demonstrate how it should be fitted. If this is not possible, make sure you can return the seat, if it is not suitable.

Will the retailer help me fit the seat?	Yes	No
Will the retailer let me try the seat before I Buy it?	Yes	No
Will the retailer let me return seat if it is not suitable?	Yes	No
Does the retailer provide good advice?	Yes	No

Does the seat meet the latest safety Standard?
Check that the seat you are buying meets the latest safety standard: ECE R44.03 or R44.04 (look for the E mark).

Does the seat conform to R44.03 or R44.04?

Yes

Does my car have airbags?
If your car has an airbag in the front on the passenger's side, you must not use a rearward-facing seat in the front. So make sure, the seat will fit in the rear of your car.

Does my car have a passenger airbag?	Yes		No
If so, will the rearward-facing seat fit in rear of my car?	Yes		No

Are the instructions easy to understand and follow?
Many people find fitting child seats difficult. The most important thing is to read and follow the manufacturer's instructions. Some instruction booklets are clearly written and well illustrated. Other's are difficult to understand and use. Ask to see the instruction booklet before you buy.

Are the instructions easy to read and follow?

Yes

ISOFIX
A new child restraint system called ISOFIX is being introduced. ISOFIX points are fixed connectors in a car's structure into which an ISOFIX child seat can simply be plugged. Many new vehicles have ISOFIX points built in when they are manufactured, and child seat manufacturers are beginning to produce ISOFIX child seats which have been approved for use in specific car models.

Does my car have ISOFIX Points?	Yes		No
Has the ISOFIX child seat been approved for my specific car model?	Yes		No

Many new cars now have ISOFIX points built into them, however it is not yet mandatory and some new vehicles may not have them. New types of vehicles must be fitted with ISOFix points from November 2012 and all new vehicles must be fitted with it from November 2014. This will not apply to cars with only one row of seats, which will not be required to have ISOFIX

Last updated: January 12, 2012

Common Problems

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Surveys often find that a high proportion of child seats are not correctly fitted, usually because of one or more of the following common problems.

* Child is Too Big or Too Small for the Seat

Child restraints are designed for children with specific weight ranges. If a child is too big for their child seat, it will not protect them properly and may even injure them in a crash. They will certainly be uncomfortable in the seat. If a child is too small, they may slip under the seat belt or harness ('submarine') and be thrown out in a crash, or the seat belt may injure them.

Solution

Make sure that your child is the right size and weight for the seat they are using. Do not be tempted to put a child in a restraint that is too big for them on the grounds that they will grow into it.

* Child Seat is Too Loose

One of the most common fitting mistakes is to leave the child seat held loosely by the seat belt. If it is not held securely, it will be thrown forwards in a crash and the child may be injured.

Solution

Make sure that the seat has been fitted according to the manufacturer's instructions. Check that the seat belt has been fitted through the correct route guides on the child seat and that it has been pulled tight. Many seats have a lock-off device to prevent the seat belt slipping once it has been tightened - make sure this is in the lock position.

Check that the child seat rests on the car seat properly.

Check with the child seat and car manufacturers that the child seat is suitable for your car. If not, use a different child seat (or car) that is compatible.

* Child Seat Does Not Rest Properly on Car Seat

The shape of car seats varies between different models. For instance, some rear seats curl up at the sides, the length of the cushion differs. And the size and shape of the base of child seats differ. Therefore, some child seats will not fit certain car models. If a child seat cannot rest properly on the car seat, it will be difficult to hold the child seat securely.

Solution

Check with the child seat and car manufacturers that the child seat is suitable for your car.

Try the child seat in other positions in the car to see if there is a better fit.

If not, use a different child seat (or car) that is compatible.

* Seat Belt Will Not Go Around Child Seat

The length of seat belts differ between cars. Generally, rearward-facing baby seats and 'two-way seats need longer seat belts than forward-facing child seats.

Solution

Check with the child seat and car manufacturers that the child seat is suitable for your car.

Try the child seat in other positions in the car to see if there is a better fit.

Some seats have an 'alternative belt route' that can be used when the belts are too short for normal installation.

If using the front seat, put the seat as far back as it will go.

In some cars, it is possible to adjust the height of the seat belt (on the door pillar) - try lowering the height adjuster if one is fitted.

If not, use a different child seat (or car) that is compatible.

* Seat Belt Anchor Points Badly Positioned

Sometimes the position or design of the seat belt anchor points make it difficult to fit a child seat securely. For instance, if the anchor point is too far forward, it may not be possible to hold a particular child seat firmly in the car seat. Or if the stalk of the seat belt clasp (the bit the buckle fits into) is too long or short, the buckle may rest against the child seat frame (see buckle crunch below).

Solution

Check with the child seat and car manufacturers that the child seat is suitable for your car.

Try the child seat in other positions in the car to see if there is a better fit.

If not, use a different child seat (or car) that is compatible.

* Buckle Crunch

If the seat belt buckle lies across the frame of the child seat it will be under pressure and may spring open in an impact. Only seatbelt webbing should be in contact with the frame of the child seat.

Solution

Make sure you have fitted the child seat according to the manufacturer's instructions and that the seat belt has been fitted through the correct route guides on the seat.

If the child seat has an 'alternative belt route' for use with shorter seats belts, see if this route avoids the buckle crunch.

If using the front seat, put the seat as far back as it will go.

In some cars, it is possible to adjust the height of the seat belt (on the door pillar) - try lowering the height adjuster if one is fitted.

Try the child seat in other positions in the car to see if there is a better fit.

Check with the child seat and car manufacturers that the child seat is suitable for your car. If not, use a different child seat (or car) that is compatible.

* Passenger Airbag in Front of Car

It is safer to put children, including babies, in the rear of the car. Some parents prefer to put babies in the front so they can keep an eye on them. However, it is very dangerous to put a rearward-facing baby seat in the front if there is an airbag fitted on the passenger side. The baby seat will be very close to the dashboard and if the airbag went off it would strike the baby seat with considerable force.

It is not as dangerous to fit forward-facing seats in the front when there is an airbag present (although it is still better to put them in the rear), but make sure that the car seat is as far back as possible and the child seat is securely held to maximise the distance between the child and the airbag.

Solution

Fit rearward facing baby seats in the rear of the car. If you feel (for medical reasons, for instance) that the baby needs to be constantly monitored, find an adult to sit with the baby.

If you must put a forward-facing seat in the front when there is an airbag present (make sure that the car seat is as far back as possible and the child seat is securely held to maximise the distance between the child and the airbag.

It may be possible to have the passenger airbag de-activated or removed, although this means that any adult passenger sitting in the front will no longer have the extra protection offered by the airbag. Check with the car manufacturer and follow their advice. You should also consult your insurance company before deactivating an airbag.

* Missing Instructions

Instructions for fitting and using child restraints are essential. Without them, it is difficult to be sure that the child seat has been correctly fitted.

Solution

Contact the manufacturer to obtain a replacement set of instructions. Some manufacturers publish the instructions on their website so they may be downloaded free of charge.

* Harness Does Not Fit My Child

Baby seats and child seats usually have an integral harness to hold the child in the seat. This should fit snugly, so that only one or two fingers can fit between the harness and the child's chest. If the harness is loose, the child could be thrown from the seat in a crash, or work their way out of the harness while you are driving. The harness buckle should not rest over the child's tummy. It is possible to raise the position of the top of the harness as a child grows.

Solution

Make sure the child seat has been fitted according to the manufacturer's instructions and that the harness is not twisted or tangled.

On many seats, it is possible to raise the position of the top of the harness as a child grows.

Clothing can affect how snugly the harness fits.

* Child Seat was in Car When I Had an Accident

A child car seat that was in a car that has been involved in an accident should be replaced, even if there is no visible damage. It is possible that it will have been weakened to such an extent that it will not provide the same level of protection in another accident. (The seat belts and seat belt attachments, especially one's that were in use at the time of the accident, should also be carefully checked to ensure that they have not been damaged).

Solution

Replace any child seat that was in a car at the time of an accident.

* Old, Second-hand Child Seats

It is usually not possible to be certain of the history of a second-hand child seat. It may have been involved in an accident and been seriously weakened - the damage may not be visible. Very often the instructions are missing from second-hand seats which makes it more difficult to be sure that you are fitting and using it correctly.

Second-hand seats are also likely to be older, to have suffered more wear and tear and may not be designed to current safety standards.

Solution

Only buy a new child seat. Prices range dramatically, and it is not necessary to buy the most expensive one. Ask your local Road Safety Department (part of your Council) whether they know of any child seat discount schemes.

If you feel you have no choice, but must use a second-hand seat, only accept one from a family member or friend (don't buy one from a second-hand shop or through the classified ads) and then only if you are absolutely certain that you know its history, it comes with the original instructions and it is not too old.

Before you agree to buy the seat:

Examine it carefully for damage (but remember, not all damage to child seats is visible to the naked eye).
Make sure the manufacturer's instructions are available.
Make sure the seat is suitable for your child's weight and height.
Try the seat in your car - if you cannot get it to fit securely, do not buy it.
Check that the seat meets the United Nations standard Regulation 44.03 - look for the 'E' mark.

* Not Sure Which Child Seat is Best for Me

There is a very wide range of different child seats available. Unfortunately, they do not all fit into every type of car - some seats are incompatible with some cars.

Solution

The most important thing is to make sure that the seat you choose is suitable for your child and for your car (or cars, if you use the child seat in more than one car).

Look through the manufacturer's catalogues, on their websites or in shops to assess a range of seats. Choose a seat that is suitable for your child's height and weight.

Contact the child seat manufacturer to check if the seat will fit your car.

Try to find a retailer who will let you (or even better, help you) try the seat in your car before you buy it.

If you buy a child seat from a retailer who will not let you try it in advance, make sure that you can return the seat if it is not suitable, and replace it or get a refund.

Avoid buying a child seat by mail order, unless you are sure that it will fit your car.

Check that the seat meets the United Nations ECE Regulation 44.03 or 44.04 - look for the 'E' mark.

* Child Undoes Seat Belt or Harness

Some children go through a phase of constantly slipping out of the child seat harness or seat belt, or releasing the buckle, during journeys. This is extremely worrying for many parents and very frustrating - once a child has learnt how to do this, it is very difficult to stop them. The good news is that it seems usually to be a phase which they grow out of.

Solution

Here is a list of suggestions for preventing your child from escaping from their child seat during a journey.

* More Children in Car than Restraints

Sometimes, there are not enough seat belts or child restraints in a car for the number of passengers. This means that someone has to travel without using a child restraint or seat belt or someone has to be left behind.

Solution

By far the best solution is only carry the same number of passengers as there are seat belts and/or child restraints. Remember cars (with the exception of people carriers) are only designed to carry one passenger in the front and a maximum of three in the rear.

If you must carry a passenger for whom there is no seat belt, it is better for the heaviest passengers to wear a seat belt. Heavier passengers will cause more severe injuries to themselves and other people in the car if they are thrown about in a crash.

Last updated: January 12, 2012

Using Child Seats

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Your child must legally use the child seat for almost every single journey, no matter how short.

Take time to get the child comfortably strapped in.
Make sure the seat's harness (if it has one) is correctly adjusted for your child. It should be quite tight, so that only one or two fingers can fit between the child's chest and harness.
Clothing can affect how snugly the harness fits, so check it every journey.
The harness buckle should not rest over the child's tummy.

If you are using a booster seat or cushion, the adult seatbelt restrains both the child and the seat or cushion. Make sure that:

The belt is worn as tight as possible
The lap belt goes over the pelvic region (from hip-bone to hip-bone), not The stomach
The diagonal strap rests on the child's shoulder, not the neck (some seats have a clip to help position the belt).
Never tuck the seatbelt under the child's arm or behind their back.

Some children go through a phase of slipping out of the harness or releasing the buckle. But do not modify the buckle to prevent this, you might affect the quick release mechanism. Advice on preventing children releasing the buckle.

ALWAYS SET A GOOD EXAMPLE BY WEARING YOUR SEAT BELT

Choosing Child Seats

Fitting Child Seats

Common Problems

Last updated: January 12, 2012

Fitting Child Seats

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If you use the child seat in more than one car, follow the advice below for each car.

It's safer to fit child seats in the rear of the car, but if necessary they can be fitted in the front. But, NEVER fit a rearward-facing baby seat in the front if there is an airbag on the passenger side of the car. If the airbag went off it would strike the seat with considerable force.

Read and follow the manufacturer's instructions for fitting the seat. If you have lost the instructions, contact the child seat manufacturer to check if they can provide a copy. Click here for contact addresses.

Make sure the seatbelt passes through all the correct guides on the child seat. Some seats have an alternative routing if the seat belt is too short to go around the main route.

Push your weight into the child seat as you tighten the seat belt to make sure the child seat is securely held. There should be no slack in the seat belt.


The child seat should rest firmly on the car seat, with hardly any forwards or sideways movement.	Check that the seatbelt buckle is not resting on the child seat frame (this is known as 'buckle crunch').

Keep the fitting instructions with the child seat in the car.

If you are unsure about anything, seek advice and if possible get someone to check the fitting of child seat for you. Click here for contact addresses. If you have a Britax seat, you can enter the details of the seat and your car on their "Fit Finder" website for advice on the best position to fit it.

Never modify the seat or adult seatbelt to make it fit.

If you are fitting a forward-facing child seat in the front of a car, make sure the car seat is as far back as it will go, so the child is as far as possible from the dashboard. This reduces the possibility of head or chest injuries in a crash.

If you take the child seat out of the car, make sure you fit it properly every time you put it back in. If it stays in the car permanently, check it regularly to make sure it is still securely held.

Choosing Child Seats

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The most important thing is to make sure that the seat you choose is suitable for your child and for your car. If you use the child seat in more than one car, follow the advice below for each car.

Before You Buy

Don't rush the decision. Look through the manufacturer's catalogues, or on their websites or in shops that sell child seats to assess a range of seats.

Think about how you will use the seat. For example, if you will be constantly taking it in and out of the car, a lighter weight seat might be preferable. Or, if you do a lot of long journeys, a seat that reclines may be more comfortable for your child and help him or her sleep.

Choose a seat that is suitable for your child's weight and height.

Babies should be in rearward-facing baby seats. Do not move your child to a forward-facing seat until they weigh at least 9 kgs and can sit up unaided, but keep them in a rearward-facing seat for as long as possible. Once your child is above the maximum weight for a rearward-facing seat or the top of their head is above the top of the seat , they should be moved into a forward-facing seat. It is not important if their knees are bent in the seat, provided they are still within the seat's weight range.

Contact the child seat manufacturer to check if the seat will fit your car. If you are considering a Britax seat, you can enter the details of the seat and your car on their "Fit Finder" website if it fits your car and the best position.

When Buying

Ask the retailer if the child seat is suitable for your child and car. Try to find a retailer who will let you (or even better, help you) try the seat in your car before you buy it.

If this is not possible, make sure that you can return the seat if it is not suitable, and replace it or get a refund.

Avoid buying a child seat by mail order, unless you are sure that it will fit your car.

Check that the seat meets the United Nations standard Regulation 44.03 or 44.04 - look for the 'E' mark.

Do not buy a second-hand seat, you cannot be certain of its history (it may have been involved in an accident and been seriously weakened - the damage may not be visible) and often the instructions are missing. Second-hand seats are likely to be older and not designed to current standards.

Only accept a child seat from a family member or friend, if you are absolutely certain that you know its history, it comes with the original instructions and it is not too old.

Fitting Child Seats
Using Child Seats

Other Vehicles

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Carrying Other People’s Children Safely

Other Vehicles

The law does not require child restraints to be provided in taxis, private hire vehicles, minicabs, minibuses, buses or coaches, although they must be used if available.

Seat belts must be worn, if fitted.

Taxis (including private hire vehicles and minicabs)

When booking a taxi, make sure it has seat belts and ask whether a child restraint can be provided or whether you can use your own. Organisations that use taxis regularly should provide their own child restraints if necessary. Some black cabs have an integral booster cushion in the rear for older children.

If the seat belts cannot be used (because the buckle is hidden under the seat, for example) ask the driver to fix it. If it cannot be fixed, do not use the vehicle – ask for a replacement.

If child restraints are not available, then children under 3 years may travel unrestrained in the rear and those 3 years to 135 cms in height must use

an adult belt in the rear seat.

Children may travel in the front if they use the correct child seat/booster. The driver is responsible in law for making sure that children under 14 years use seatbelts or child seats/boosters as required.

Minibuses, Buses and Coaches
In small buses, up to 2,540 kg unladen weight (these are usually minibuses), children over 3 years old must wear seat belts, or use child restraints, if available.

On larger buses and coaches, all seated passengers aged 14 years and above must wear seat belts if they are fitted. The driver (or a conductor or similar person) must notify passengers when they board that they have to wear their belts and/or signs must be displayed at every seat. Regulations to require children aged 3 years to 13 years to use seat belts will follow as soon as possible.

Operators are not required to provide child restraints, but if they are available and if they can be fitted properly, they must be used. When booking a minibus, bus or coach, make sure it has seat belts and ask whether child restraints can be provided or whether you can use your own. But be aware that it may not be possible to fit them properly because the seats and seat belts are different from cars. In some of these vehicles it is possible to adjust the height of the seat belt so that they fit child passengers better.

Last updated: January 12, 2012

Using the Right Child Restraint

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Carrying Other People’s Children Safely

Using the Right Child Restraint

Child restraints must be:

Suitable for the child
Suitable for the vehicle
In a safe condition

Choosing Child Restraints

Don't rush the decision. Look through manufacturers’ catalogues and websites or in shops to assess a range of seats. Find a retailer who will let you ‘Try Before You Buy’. Ask if they have trained staff and check that one will be available before you visit the store. Good retailers will check whether a restraint is suitable for the car or cars in which it will be used, will demonstrate how to fit it and will allow you to try to fit it yourself.

Contact child seat manufacturers to check what seats they recommend for the vehicle(s) you are using.

Ask your local Road Safety Unit if they have an advice, checking or fitting service.

Suitable for the Child

Child restraints are designed for specific weight ranges of children. These broadly match different age groups, but it is the weight that is most important. Many can be converted as the child grows and so fit into more than one group. Note that manufacturers may use names different to those mentioned below.

Type	Weight	Approx Age
Rearward-facing baby seat	Group 0 up to 10 kgs (22 lbs)¹ Group 0+ up to 13kg (29lbs)	birth to 6-9 months birth to 12-15 months
Combination seat	Group 0+ to 1 0-18 kgs (20-40 lbs)	birth - 4 years
Forward-facing child seat	Group 1 9-18 kgs (20-40 lbs)	9 months - 4 years
Booster Seat²	Group 2 15 - 25 kgs (33 - 55 lbs)	4 to 6 years
Booster Seat	Group 2 and 3 15 - 36 kgs (33 - 79 lbs)	4 to 11 years
Booster Seat	Group 1, 2 and 3 9 - 36 kgs (20 - 79 lbs)	9 months to 11 years
Booster Cushion²	Group 3 22 - 36 kgs (48 - 79 lbs)	6 - 11 years

¹ Group 0 (0 – 10 kg) baby seats are no longer produced.
² Booster seats that only fit into Group 2 or only into Group 3 are no longer produced. All now fit into either Group 2 and 3 (15 – 36 kg)
or Groups 1 to 3 (9 – 36 kg).

Babies

Babies must be carried in rearward-facing baby seats. They are designed for babies up to 13 kgs (29 lbs) in weight. It is best to keep babies rearward facing for as long as possible because this provides much better protection for their head, neck and spine. They should only be put in a forward-facing seat when they have exceeded the maximum weight for the baby seat and can sit up unaided or the top of their head is higher than the top of the baby seat.

Young Children

It is dangerous and illegal to place a rearward-facing baby seat in the front if there is an active frontal passenger airbag because the airbag would strike the baby seat with considerable force if it went off.

Children weighing 9 - 18 kgs (20 - 40 lbs), roughly from 9 months to 4 years, should travel in a forward-facing child seat. They have an integral 5-point harness which should include a 'crotch strap' to prevent the child from sliding out feet first in an accident. The top of the harness should be at shoulder height and it should only be possible to fit two fingers between the harness and the child’s chest. It is important to check the harness every time it is used. Keep children in this type of seat until they are too heavy for it.

Older Children

Booster seats and booster cushions are for children from 15 kgs (33 lbs) to either 25 Kgs (55 lbs) or 36 kgs (79 lbs). Some start from 9 kgs (20 lbs).

They are mainly designed to raise children so that the adult seat belt fits them properly, but many also provide protection from side impact. The adult seat belt goes around the child and the seat (some have an integral harness for younger children).The lap belt must go under the arms of the seat and as low as possible over the child’s pelvis, not up over their tummy. The diagonal strap should rest over the shoulder, not the neck. Many have an adjustable clip to help position the belt on the shoulder.

Booster seats have a high back, which can be removed on many models to convert it into a booster cushion when the child is big enough.

Children over 135 cms tall or aged 12 years and above

A child who is 135 cms tall or who is 12 years or older, can travel using the seat belt on its own. It is better for children to continue to use a booster seat until they are 150 cms tall.

If a child is heavier than the maximum weight (36kg) for a booster seat, but not yet tall enough to use to use an adult seat belt on its own, it is better to keep them in the booster seat or cushion until they have reached 135 cms in height.

Suitable for the Car

Whether a child restraint can be fitted in a particular car will depend on the shape and length of the car’s seats, the position of the seat belt buckles and the size and shape of the child restraint. It is essential to make sure that any child restraint being used can be properly fitted in the car(s) in which it is used. An incorrectly fitted seat will not provide the protection it should do and may even cause injuries.

One of the most common mistakes is to leave the child seat too loose. Make sure that it has been fitted according to the manufacturer's instructions and that it does not move about when pulled by hand. If it has a device to prevent the seat belt slipping once it has been tightened, make sure this is in the locked position. Remember, always try out a child seat in your car before purchasing it.

ISOFix

Check that the ISOFix child seat will fit the vehicle(s) in which it is being used. Ask whether an additional top tether on the seat is needed. Some seats have a ‘foot’ that extends to the vehicle floor, in which case check it does not rest on the cover of an underfloor compartment.

Safe Condition

It is also important to check that child car seats are in a safe condition.

They must conform to the UN ECE R44.03 or later standard (e.g. R44.04), and display an "E" mark with the weight range of child for which it is designed.

Older ones that conform to a British Standard or to an earlier version of R44 are still in use. From May 2008, all child restraints in use will legally have to meet R44.03 or later standards.

Replacing Seats

Child car seats suffer from wear and tear, especially if they are constantly being put into and taken out of cars. They should be replaced according to the manufacturer’s recommendations or about every five years. If they are not used regularly, store them out of direct sunlight and where they are not likely to suffer accidental damage.

Child car seats and adult seat belts that were in a vehicle involved in a crash should be replaced, as they may have suffered damage that is not visible to the naked eye, and would not provide protection in a second crash. The replacement cost is normally included as part of any insurance claim.

Beware of a second-hand child restraint as it may not be possible to be certain of its history. It may have been involved in an accident and have hidden damage. It is likely that the instructions will be missing. Second-hand seats are also likely to be older, to have suffered more wear and tear and may not be designed to current safety standards.

Last updated: January 12, 2012

Child Seat and Seat Belt Laws

2012-01-14T08:37:00.000-08:00

Carrying Other People’s Children Safely

Child Seat and Seat Belt Laws

From 18th September 2006, the law requires all children in cars, vans and other goods vehicles to be carried in an appropriate child restraint from birth until either they are 135cm (4’5”) tall or have reached the age of 12 years (whichever comes first) with very few exceptions. They must then use a seat belt (although it would be preferable to use a booster seat or booster cushion until they are 150cm (5’) tall).

Children under 3 years
Must use an appropriate child restraint when travelling in the front or rear of a vehicle. They cannot be carried in a car that does not have seat belts because it will not be possible to fit a child restraint in such vehicles.

Children aged 3 years to 135cm in height (approx 4’5”) and who are also under 12 years old
Must use an appropriate child restraint when travelling in the front seat of a car, van or other goods vehicle and when travelling in the rear if seat belts are fitted.

Children aged 12 years and over (or younger children over 135cm tall)
Must wear a seat belt if fitted in the front or rear of a car, van or other goods vehicle.

It is the driver’s responsibility to ensure that children under 14 years old use an appropriate child restraint or wear their seat belt.

Exceptions
Unexpected Necessity
If an appropriate child restraint is not available, children over 3 years old may travel in the rear using an adult seat belt. This exception is for emergencies and unplanned situations. For example, when someone has to carry a child due to an “unexpected necessity” over a short distance, and where not carrying the child (because a child restraint is not available) might leave him or her at risk. It does not apply to trips that could have reasonably been planned (e.g., a school run), nor to ‘long’ journeys or to children under 3 years old.

When three child restraints cannot be fitted in the rear
If it is not possible to fit three child restraints in the rear of a car, then two children up to 135 cm in height must travel in child seats and the third child may use an adult seat belt on its own. This exemption does not apply to children under 3 years old.

It may be better for the third child to sit in a child restraint in the front rather than use the adult seat belt in the rear. If there is an active passenger airbag, check with the vehicle manufacturer or the handbook about using a child restraint in the front. If you do, move the front seat as far back as possible on its runners.

A rearward facing baby seat must not be used in the front if there is an active front airbag.

Licensed Taxis (including private hire vehicles and minicabs)
If a child restraint is not available, children under 3 years must travel in the rear, but may be unrestrained. Children 3 years and over, up to 135cm tall must sit in the rear and use an adult seat belt. Children aged 12 years or more, or over 135cm tall, may travel the front, but must wear the seat belt. (See Other Vehicles).

Emergency Vehicles
Children may be carried in vehicles being used by the police or other emergency services, if appropriate child restraints are not available.

Last updated: January 12, 2012

Duty of Care

2012-01-14T08:16:00.000-08:00

Carrying Other People's Children Safely

Duty of Care

Any organisation or individual who carries other people's children has a legal duty to ensure they carry them safely.

Every year around 25 children under 12 years old are killed and 8,000 injured while travelling in cars in Great Britain. Many of these deaths and injuries can be prevented if children travel in baby seats, child seats or booster seats that are suitable for their size and weight, suitable for the car and are securely fitted.

Seat belts on their own are less effective for children because they are primarily designed for adults. In a crash, a child may slide under an adult belt because the lap strap is too high over their abdomen, or it could cause serious internal injuries.

As part of its health and safety system, any organisation that transports children must ensure its drivers are fit and competent, vehicles are safe and suitable, passengers are carried safely, and journeys are properly planned. Further advice on these issues is available here.

These web pages give advice on using child car seats and seat belts, which is relevant to parents sharing the school run as well as organisations providing a transport service.

Providing Child Restraints

Organisations or individuals who carry other people's children in cars, vans and other goods vehicles must make sure they provide appropriate child restraints (See Using the Right Restraint) for each child carried until s/he is able to use an adult seat belt on its own. Child restraints are rearward facing baby seats, forward facing child seats, booster seats and booster cushions. Different rules apply in buses/coaches (See Other Vehicles).

If you do not normally carry children, but know that, on occasion, you may need to do so at short notice, consider how you can make arrangements to have access to child restraints in such situations.

If you use other people's child restraints, get them to talk you through the manufacturer's instructions whilst showing you how to fit the seat first, so that you are sure you can fit it correctly.

Training

Staff need to be trained to assess that the child restraints provided are appropriate for the child and the vehicle, and to fit them, or at least check they are correctly fitted.

Some child seat manufacturers and retailers provide training and/or will check seats (See Useful Links).

The Road Safety Unit of the Local Authority or Police Force may be able to offer such training or a seat checking service, or recommend other training providers. Many also run Child Seat Check days at local venues, such as Supermarkets.

Insurance

Organisations should declare in writing to their insurers that they carry children in their vehicles, and keep a copy of relevant paperwork with their insurance documents.

Using Taxis, Buses and Coaches

Safety measures also need to be considered when hiring taxis, private hire vehicles, minicabs, minibuses, buses or coaches (See Other Vehicles).

Last updated: January 12, 2012

Carrying Other People’s Children Safely

2012-01-14T07:52:00.000-08:00

Advice about child car seats and seat belts for anyone who transports other people’s children in a car, taxi, coach or bus.

These web pages give advice on using child car seats and seat belts, which is relevant to parents sharing the school run as well as organisations providing a transport service.

* Duty of Care
* Child Seat and Seat Belt Laws
* Using the Right Child Restraint
* Other Vehicles
* Useful Links

Carrying Children Safely

2012-01-14T07:02:00.000-08:00

In a crash at just 30 mph, an unrestrained child would be thrown forward with a force 30 to 60 times their body weight. They would be thrown about inside the vehicle, injuring themselves and quite possibly seriously injuring (or even killing) other people inside the vehicle. They are also likely to be ejected from the car through one of the windows.

It is not safe to hold a child on your lap. In a crash, the child could be crushed between your body and part of the car's interior. Even if you are using a seat belt, the child would be torn from your arms - you would not be able to hold onto them, no matter how hard you try.

It is also dangerous to put a seat belt around yourself and a child (or around two children).

The safest way for children to travel in cars is in a child seat that is suitable for their weight and size.

Type of Child Restraint	Weight Range	Approx Age Range
Rearward-facing baby seat ⁽¹⁾	Group 0 for babies up to 10 kgs (22 lbs)	birth to 6-9 months
	Group 0+ for babies up to 13kg (29 lbs)	birth to 12-15 months
Combination seat	Group 0+ - 1 0-18 kgs (20-40 lbs)	birth - 4 years
Forward-facing child seat	Group 1 9-18 kgs (20-40 lbs)	9 months - 4 years
Booster Seat ⁽²⁾	Group 2 15-25 kgs (33-55 lbs)	4 years to 6 years
Booster Seat	Group 2 and 3 15-36 kgs (33-79 lbs)	4 years to 11 years
Booster Seat	Group 1, 2 and 3 9-36 kgs (20-79 lbs)	9 months to 11 years
Booster Cushion ⁽²⁾	Group 3 22-36 kgs (48-79 lbs)	6 to 11 years

⁽¹⁾ Group 0 (0 – 9 kg) baby seats are no longer produced.
⁽²⁾ Booster seats that only fit into Group 2 or only into Group 3 are no longer produced. They now fit into either Group 2 and 3 (15 – 36 kg) or Groups 1 to 3 (9 – 36 kg).

Click here for more detail on Types of Child Restraints

A properly fitted child restraint keeps the child in their seat, preventing them from being thrown about inside, or ejected from, the vehicle. It also absorbs some of the impact force. This means that your child is much less likely to be killed or injured in a crash.

To be effective, child restraints must be fitted and used correctly. Surveys have consistently shown that a high proportion of child restraints are incorrectly fitted, usually for one or more of these reasons:

Seat belt too loose
Seat belt not routed through child seat correctly
Buckle crunch (buckle resting against part of the child seat's frame, which means that in a crash it might break or snap open)
Handle on baby seat not positioned properly
Child seat not compatible with car
Child seat old and in bad condition
Child too large or too small for the seat they are using.

Click here for more details about Common Problems when fitting child restraints.

Booster Seats

By the time children weigh 15 - 25 kgs (33 - 55 lbs) (usually about 4 to 6 years old, but the weight is the most important factor) they are ready to use booster seats. This means that the adult seat belt will go around them and the seat. So it is important that the seat belt is correctly adjusted. The basic points to note are:

the belt should be worn as tight as possible
the lap belt should go over the pelvic region (from hip-bone to hip-bone), not the stomach
the diagonal strap should rest over the shoulder, not the neck.

Seat Belts

Seat belts are designed for people 150 cms (about 5ft) and taller. Don't let your child graduate to using the seat belt on its own too soon. Children are usually big enough to use the seat belt on its own by the time they are about 11 years old, although this varies from child to child.

Three-point seat belts (lap and diagonal) provide greater protection than lap belts. However, lap belts are far better than no belt at all.

The lap belt should be placed over the pelvis (from hip-bone to hip-bone), not the stomach and worn as tight as possible.

Passenger Restraints

Some passengers with disabilities may need postural support during the journey, and a variety of passenger restraints to assist people to remain upright in their seat are available. Under no circumstances should they be used instead of a suitable seat belt as they do not conform to a recognised standard nor are they designed for this purpose.

Advice on Choosing Child Seats
Advice on Fitting Child Seats
Advice on Using Child Seats

Last updated: January 12, 2012

Booster Seat Safety

2012-01-14T05:57:00.000-08:00

A Minute for Kids: Booster Seat Safety (Video)

Car Safety Seat Checkup

2012-01-14T05:38:00.000-08:00

Using a car safety seat correctly makes a big difference. Even the seat appropriate for your child’s size may not properly protect your child in a crash unless it is used correctly. So take a minute to check to be sure.

Figure 1: Infant-only car safety seat

Does your car have air bags?

Never place a rear-facing car safety seat in the front seat of a vehicle that has a front passenger air bag. If the air bag inflates, it will hit the back of the car safety seat, right where your baby’s head is, and could cause serious injury or death.
The safest place for all children younger than 13 years to ride is in the back seat.
If an older child must ride in the front seat, a child in a forward-facing car safety seat with a harness may be the best choice. Just be sure the vehicle seat is moved as far back from the dashboard (and the air bag) as possible.

Figure 2: Forward-facing car safety seat

Is your child facing the right way for weight, height, and age?

All infants and toddlers should ride in a rear-facing car safety seat until they are 2 years of age or until they reach the highest weight or height allowed by their car safety seat’s manufacturer.
All children 2 years or older, or those younger than 2 years who have outgrown the rear-facing weight or height limit for their car safety seat, should use a forward-facing car safety seat with a harness for as long as possible, up to the highest weight or height allowed by their car safety seat’s manufacturer.

Is the harness snug?

Harnesses should fit snugly against your child’s body. Check the car safety seat instructions on how to adjust the straps.
The chest clip should be placed at armpit level to keep the harness straps on the shoulders.

Figure 3: Belt-positioning booster seat

Has your child outgrown the forward-facing seat?

All children whose weight or height is above the forward-facing limit for their car safety seat should use a belt-positioning booster seat until the vehicle seat belt fits properly, typically when they have reached 4 feet 9 inches in height and are between 8 and 12 years of age.
A seat belt fits properly when the shoulder belt crosses the middle of the chest and shoulder, the lap belt is low and snug across the thighs, and the child is tall enough so that when he sits against the vehicle seat back, his legs bend at the knees and his feet hang down.

Does the car safety seat fit correctly in your vehicle?

Not all car safety seats fit properly in all vehicles.
Read the section on car safety seats in the owner’s manual for your car.

Is the seat belt in the right place and pulled tight?

Route the seat belt through the correct path. Convertible seats have different belt paths for when they are used rear-facing or forward-facing (check your instructions to make sure).
Pull the belt tight. Apply weight into the seat with your hand while tightening the seat belt or lower anchor strap. When the car safety seat is installed, be sure it does not move more than an inch side to side or toward the front of the car.
Check the owner’s manual for your car to see if you need a locking clip.
It is best to use the tether that comes with your car safety seat to the highest weight allowed by the vehicle and car safety seat manufacturers. Check the vehicle owner’s manual and car safety seat instructions for how and when to use the tether and lower anchors.

Can you use the LATCH system?

LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) is an attachment system that eliminates the need to use seat belts to secure the car safety seat.
Vehicles with the LATCH system have anchors located in the back seat. Car safety seats that come with LATCH have attachments that fasten to these anchors.
Nearly all passenger vehicles and all car safety seats made on or after September 1, 2002, come with LATCH.
Unless both the vehicle and the car safety seat have this system, seat belts are still needed to secure the car safety seat.
Always follow car safety seat and vehicle manufacturer instructions, including weight limits, for lower anchors and top tether anchors. Remember, limits can vary from manufacturer to manufacturer.

Do you have the instructions for the car safety seat?

Follow them and keep them with the car safety seat.
Be sure to send in the registration card that comes with the car safety seat. It will be important in case the seat is recalled.

Has the car safety seat been recalled?

You can find out by calling the manufacturer or the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) Vehicle Safety Hot Line at 888/327-4236 or the NHTSA Web site.
Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for making any needed repairs to your car safety seat.

Are you using a used car safety seat?

Do not use a car safety seat that has been in a crash, has been recalled, is too old (check with the manufacturer), has any cracks in its frame, or is missing parts.
Make sure it has a label from the manufacturer and instructions.
Call the car safety seat manufacturer if you have questions about the safety of your seat.

Questions
If you have questions or need help installing your car safety seat, find a certified child passenger safety (CPS) technician. A list of certified CPS technicians is available by state or ZIP code here.(information is available for children with special needs and in Spanish). A list of inspection stations-where you can go to learn how to correctly install a car safety seat-is available in English and Spanish at www.seatcheck.org or toll-free at 866/SEATCHECK (866/732-8243). You can also get this information by calling the toll-free NHTSA Vehicle Safety Hot Line at 888/327-4236, from 8:00 am to 10:00 pm ET, Monday through Friday.

Car Safety Seat

2011-04-04T16:35:00.000-07:00

But with so many different car safety seats on the market, it’s no wonder many parents find this overwhelming. The type of seat your child needs depends on several things including your child’s size and the type of vehicle you have.

All children should be seated in a suitable restraint when travelling in a car for their own safety. Adult seatbelts do not offer sufficient protection for babies and children and an appropriate child restraint must be used until your child reaches approximate 26kg in weight (generally at about 7 years of age). This includes your first journey home from the hospital with your baby, so don't leave it too late to get one fitted!

There is not such thing as "best" or "safest" when it comes to baby car safety seats. The best seat is the one that fits your child’s age and size, is correctly installed, fits well in your vehicle, and can be used properly every time you drive. Don’t decide by price alone. A higher price does not mean the seat is safer or easier to use. Avoid used seats if you don’t know the seat’s history. Never use a car seat which:

* Is too old. Look on the label for the date it was made. Check with the manufacturer to find out how long it recommends using the seat.

* Has any visible cracks on it.

* Does not have a label with the date of manufacture and model number. Without these, you cannot check to see if the seat has been recalled.

* Does not come with instructions. You need them to know how to use the seat.

* Is missing parts. Used car safety seats often come without important parts. Check with the manufacturer to make sure you can get the right parts.

* Was recalled. You can find out by calling the manufacturer or by contacting the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) Vehicle Safety Hotline at 888/327-4236. You can also visit the NHTSA Web site at www-odi.nhtsa.dot.gov/cars/problems/recalls/childseat.cfm.

Car Safety Seats: Information for Families for 2011

2011-04-03T16:43:00.000-07:00

One of the most important jobs you have as a parent is keeping your child safe when riding in a vehicle. Each year thousands of young children are killed or injured in car crashes. Proper use of car safety seats helps keep children safe. But with so many different car safety seats on the market, it’s no wonder many parents find this overwhelming.

The type of seat your child needs depends on several things, including your child’s size and the type of vehicle you have. The following information from the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) offers guidance on choosing the most appropriate car safety seat for your child.
To see a list of car safety seats and safety seat manufacturers, click here.

Infants and toddlers—rear-facing

The AAP recommends that all infants should ride rear-facing starting with their first ride home from the hospital. All infants and toddlers should ride in a Rear-Facing Car Safety Seat until they are 2 years of age or until they reach the highest weight or height allowed by their car safety seat’s manufacturer.

Types of rear-facing car safety seats

There are 3 types of rear-facing car safety seats: infant-only seats, convertible seats, and 3-in-1 seats. When children reach the highest weight or length allowed by the manufacturer of their infant-only seat, they should continue to ride rear-facing in a convertible seat or 3-in-1 seat.

Types of Car Safety Seats at a Glance

Age Group	Type of Seat	General Guidelines
Infants/Toddlers	Infant seats and rear-facing convertible seats	All infants and toddlers should ride in a Rear-Facing Car Safety Seat until they are 2 years of age or until they reach the highest weight or height allowed by their car safety seat’s manufacturer.
Toddlers/Preschoolers	Convertible seats and forward-facing seats with harnesses	All children 2 years or older, or those younger than 2 years who have outgrown the rear-facing weight or height limit for their car safety seat, should use a Forward-Facing Car Safety Seat with a harness for as long as possible, up to the highest weight or height allowed by their car safety seat’s manufacturer.
School-aged children	Booster seats	All children whose weight or height is above the forward-facing limit for their car safety seat should use a Belt-Positioning Booster Seat until the vehicle seat belt fits properly, typically when they have reached 4 feet 9 inches in height and are between 8 and 12 years of age.
Older children	Seat belts	When children are old enough and large enough to use the vehicle seat belt alone, they should always use Lap and Shoulder Seat Belts for optimal protection. All children younger than 13 years should be restrained in the Rear Seats of vehicles for optimal protection.

Figure 1: Infant-only car safety seat

Infant-only seats

Are used for infants up to 22 to 35 pounds, depending on the model.
Are small and have carrying handles (and sometimes come as part of a stroller system).
May come with a base that can be left in the car. The seat clicks into and out of the base so you don’t have to install the seat each time you use it. Parents can buy more than one base for additional vehicles.
Are used only for travel (not for positioning outside the vehicle).

Convertible seats (used rear-facing)

Can be used rear-facing, then “converted” to forward-facing for older children. This means the seat can be used longer by your child. They are bulkier than infant seats, however, and do not come with carrying handles or separate bases.
May have higher rear-facing weight (30–40 pounds) and height limits than infant-only seats, which make them ideal for bigger babies.
Usually have a 5-point harness that attaches at the shoulders, at the hips, and between the legs. Older convertible seats may have an overhead shield—a padded tray-like shield that swings down over the child.

3-in-1 seats (used rear-facing)

Can be used rear-facing, forward-facing, or as a belt-positioning booster. This means the seat may be used longer by your child.
Are often bigger in size so adequate space within the vehicle when rear-facing should be determined.
Do not have the convenience of a carrying handle or a separate base; however, they may have higher rear-facing weight (35–40 pounds) and height limits than infant-only seats, which make them ideal for bigger babies.

Installation tips for rear-facing seats

When using a rear-facing seat, keep the following in mind:

Place the harnesses in your rear-facing seat in slots that are at or below your baby’s shoulders.
Ensure that the harness is snug and that the harness clip is positioned at the mid-chest level.
Make sure the car safety seat is installed tightly in the vehicle. If you can move the seat at the belt path more than an inch side to side or front to back, it’s not tight enough.
Never place a rear-facing car safety seat in the front seat of a vehicle that has an active front passenger air bag. If the air bag inflates, it will hit the back of the car safety seat, right where your baby’s head is, and could cause serious injury or death.
Be sure you know what kind of seat belts your vehicle has. Some seat belts need locking clips to keep the belt locked into position. Locking clips come with most new car safety seats. If you’re not sure, check the owner’s manual that came with your vehicle. Locking clips are not needed in most newer vehicles, and some seats have built-in lock-offs to lock the belt.
If you are using a convertible or 3-in-1 seat in the rear-facing position, make sure the seat belt is routed through the correct belt path. Check the instructions that came with the car safety seat to be sure.
If your vehicle was made after 2002, it may come with the LATCH system, which is used to secure car safety seats. See below for information on using LATCH.
Make sure the seat is at the correct angle so your infant’s head does not flop forward. Many seats have angle indicators or adjusters that can help prevent this. If your seat does not have an angle adjuster, tilt the car safety seat back by putting a rolled towel or other firm padding (such as a pool noodle) under the base near the point where the back and bottom of the vehicle seat meet.
Still having trouble? There may be a certified child passenger safety (CPS) technician in your area who can help. If you need installation help, see below for information on how to locate a CPS technician.

Common questions

Q: What if my baby’s feet touch the back of the vehicle seat?
A: Your child can bend his legs easily and will be comfortable in a convertible seat. Injuries to the legs are rare for children facing the rear.
Q: What do I do if my baby slouches down or to the side in his car safety seat?
A: Blanket rolls may be placed on both sides of the infant and a small diaper or blanket between the crotch strap and the infant. Do not place padding under or behind the infant or use any sort of car safety seat insert unless it came with the seat or was made by the manufacturer of the seat.

Figure 2: Car safety seat with a small cloth between crotch strap and infant, retainer clip positioned at the midpoint of the infant’s chest, and blanket rolls on both sides of the infant.

Q: Can I adjust the straps when my baby is wearing thicker clothing, like in the winter?
A: Yes, but make sure the harnesses are still snug. Also remember to tighten the straps again after the thicker clothes are no longer needed. Ideally, dress your baby in thinner layers instead of a bulky coat or snowsuit, and tuck a blanket around your baby over the buckled harness straps if needed.
Q: Are rear-facing convertible seats OK to use for preemies?
A: Premature infants should be tested while still in the hospital to make sure they can ride safely in a reclined position. Babies who need to lie flat during travel should ride in a crash-tested car bed. Very small infants who can ride safely in a reclined position usually fit better in infant-only seats; however, if you need to use a convertible seat, choose one without a tray-shield harness. The shields often are too big and too far from the body to fit correctly and the child’s face could hit the shield in a crash.
Q: What is LATCH?
A: LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) is an attachment system for car safety seats. Lower anchors can be used instead of the seat belt to install the seat and may be easier to use in some cars. The top tether improves the safety provided by the seat and is important to use for all forward-facing seats. Read the vehicle owner’s manual and the car safety seat instructions for weight limits for lower anchors and top tethers.
Vehicles with the LATCH system have anchors located in the back seat. Car safety seats that come with LATCH have attachments that fasten to these anchors. Nearly all passenger vehicles and all car safety seats made on or after September 1, 2002, come with LATCH. However, unless both your vehicle and the car safety seat have the lower anchor system, you will still need to use seat belts to install the car safety seat.

Toddlers and preschoolers—forward-facing

All children 2 years or older, or those younger than 2 years who have outgrown the rear-facing weight or height limit for their car safety seat, should use a Forward-Facing Car Safety Seat with a harness for as long as possible, up to the highest weight or height allowed by their car safety seat’s manufacturer. It is best for children to ride in a seat with a harness as long as possible, at least to 4 years of age. If your child outgrows his seat before reaching 4 years of age, consider using a seat with a harness approved for higher weights and heights.

Figure 3: Forward-facing car safety seat

Types of car safety restraints

There are 5 types of car safety restraints that can be used forward-facing.

Convertible seats—Seats that “convert” from rear-facing to forward-facing seats. These include 3-in-1 seats.
Forward-facing only—These seats can be used forward-facing with a harness for children who weigh up to 40 to 80 pounds (depending on the model).
Combination seat with harness—These seats can be used forward-facing with a harness for children who weigh up to 40 to 80 pounds (depending on the model) or without the harness as a booster (up to 80–100 pounds).
Built-in seats—Some vehicles come with forward-facing seats built in. Weight and height limits vary. Read your vehicle owner’s manual or contact the manufacturer for details about how to use these seats.
Travel vests—These can be worn by children between 20 and 168 pounds and can be an alternative to traditional forward-facing seats. They are useful for when a vehicle has lap-only seat belts in the rear or for children whose weight has exceeded that allowed by car safety seats. These vests may require use of a top tether.

Installation tips for forward-facing seats

Make sure the car safety seat is installed tightly in the vehicle and that the harness fits the child snugly.
To switch a convertible or 3-in-1 seat from rear-facing to forward-facing

Move the shoulder straps to the slots that are at or above your child’s shoulders. On some convertible seats, the top harness slots must be used when facing forward. Check the instructions that came with the seat to be sure.
You may have to adjust the recline angle of the seat. Check the instructions to be sure.
Make sure the seat belt runs through the forward-facing belt path. When making these changes, always follow the car safety seat instructions.
If your vehicle was made after 2002, it should come with the LATCH system, which is used to secure car safety seats.

A tether is a strap that attaches to the top of a car safety seat and to an anchor point in your vehicle (see your vehicle owner’s manual to find where the tether anchors are in your vehicle). Tethers give important extra protection by keeping the car safety seat and the child’s head from moving too far forward in a crash or sudden stop. All new cars, minivans, and light trucks have been required to have tether anchors since September 2000. New forward-facing car safety seats come with tethers. Check the car safety seat instructions and vehicle owner’s manual for information about the top weight limit and locations of the tether anchors.

Common questions

Q: What if I drive more children than can be buckled safely in the back seat?
A: It’s best to avoid this, especially if your vehicle has air bags in the front seat. All children younger than 13 years should ride in the back seat. If absolutely necessary, a child in a forward-facing car safety seat with a harness may be the best choice to ride in front. Just be sure the vehicle seat is moved as far back away from the dashboard (and the air bag) as possible.
Q: What do I need to know if my child will be driven by someone else, such as for child care or school?
A: If your child is being driven by someone else, make sure

The car safety seat your child will be using fits properly in the vehicle used for transport.
The car safety seat being used is appropriate for the age and size of your child.
The person in charge of transporting your child knows how to install and use the car safety seat correctly.

Child care programs and schools should have written guidelines for transporting children. These guidelines should include the following:

All drivers must have a valid driver’s license. In some states, school bus drivers need to have a special type of license.
Staff-to-child ratios for transport should meet or exceed those required for the classroom.
Every child should be supervised during transport, either by school staff or a parent volunteer, so the driver can focus on driving.
School staff, teachers, and drivers should know what do to in an emergency, know how to properly use car safety seats and seat belts, and be aware of other safety requirements.

Q: Should my child ride in a car safety seat on an airplane?
A: Most infant, convertible, and forward-facing seats can be used on airplanes, but booster seats and travel vests cannot. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the AAP recommend that when flying, children should be securely fastened in certified child restraints until 4 years of age, and then should be secured with the airplane seat belts. This will help keep them safe during takeoff and landing or in case of turbulence. Check the label on your car safety seat or call the car safety seat manufacturer before you travel to see if your seat is certified for use on an airplane. You can also consider using a restraint made only for use on airplanes and approved by the FAA.

School-aged children—booster seats

Booster seats are for older children who have outgrown their forward-facing car safety seats. All children whose weight or height is above the forward-facing limit for their car safety seat should use a Belt-Positioning Booster Seat until the vehicle seat belt fits properly, typically when they have reached 4 feet 9 inches in height and are between 8 and 12 years of age. The owner’s manual that comes with your car safety seat will tell you the height and weight limits for the seat. As a general guideline, a child has outgrown his forward-facing seat when any one of the following is true:

He reaches the top weight or height allowed for his seat with a harness. (These limits are listed on the seat and also included in the instruction booklet.)
His shoulders are above the top harness slots.
His ears have reached the top of the seat.

Types of booster seats

Booster seats are designed to raise the child up so that the lap and shoulder seat belts fit properly. High-back and backless booster seats are available. They do not come with harness straps but are used with the lap and shoulder seat belts in your vehicle, the same way an adult rides. Booster seats should be used until your child can correctly fit in lap and shoulder seat belts. Booster seats typically include a plastic clip or guide to help ensure the correct use of the vehicle lap and shoulder belts. See the instruction booklet that came with the booster seat for directions on how to use the guide or clip.

Figure 4: Belt-positioning booster seat

Installation tips for booster seats

Booster seats must be used with a lap and shoulder belt. When using a booster seat, make sure

The lap belt lies low and snug across your child’s upper thighs.
The shoulder belt crosses the middle of your child’s chest and shoulder.

Common questions

Q: What if my car only has lap belts in the back seat?
A: Lap belts work fine with infant-only, convertible, and forward-facing seats. If your car only has lap belts, use a forward-facing car safety seat with a harness and higher weight limits. Other options are

Check to see if shoulder belts can be installed in your vehicle.
Use a travel vest (some can be used with lap belts).
Consider buying another car with lap and shoulder belts in the back seat.

Q: Is there a difference between high-back and backless boosters?
A: Both types of boosters are designed to raise your child so the seat belts fit properly and both will reduce your child’s risk of injury in a crash. High-back boosters are useful in vehicles that do not have head rests or have low seat backs. Many seats that look like high-back boosters are actually combination seats. They come with harnesses that can be used for smaller children and can then be removed for older children. Backless boosters are usually less expensive and are easier to move from vehicle to vehicle. Backless boosters can be safely used in vehicles with headrests and high seat backs.

Older children—seat belts

Seat belts are made for adults. Your child should stay in a booster seat until adult seat belts fit correctly (usually when the child reaches about 4 feet 9 inches in height and is between 8 and 12 years of age). When children are old enough and large enough to use the vehicle seat belt alone, they should always use Lap and Shoulder Seat Belts for optimal protection.

Using a seat belt

An adult seat belt fits correctly when

The shoulder belt lies across the middle of the chest and shoulder, not the neck or throat.
The lap belt is low and snug across the upper thighs, not the belly.
Your child is tall enough to sit against the vehicle seat back with her knees bent without slouching and can stay in this position comfortably throughout the trip.

Other points to keep in mind when using seat belts include

Make sure your child does not tuck the shoulder belt under her arm or behind her back. This leaves the upper body unprotected, putting your child at risk of severe injury in a crash or with sudden braking.
Never allow anyone to “share” seat belts. All passengers must have their own car safety seats or seat belts.

Common Questions

Q: I’ve seen products that say they can help make the seat belt fit better. Should we get one of these?
A: No, these products should not be used. In fact, they may actually interfere with proper seat belt fit by causing the lap belt to ride too high on the stomach and making the shoulder belt too loose. They can even damage the seat belt. This rule applies to car safety seats too; do not use any extra products unless they came with the seat. There are no federal safety standards for these products and until there are, the AAP does not recommend they be used. As long as children are riding in the correct restraint for their size, they should not need to use any additional devices.

Shopping for car safety seats

When shopping for a car safety seat, keep the following tips in mind:

No one seat is the “best” or “safest.” The best seat is the one that fits your child’s size, is correctly installed, fits well in your vehicle, and is used properly every time you drive.
Don’t decide by price alone. A higher price does not mean the seat is safer or easier to use.
Avoid used seats if you don’t know the seat’s history. Never use a car safety seat that

Is too old. Look on the label for the date it was made. Check with the manufacturer to find out how long it recommends using the seat.
Has any visible cracks on it.
Does not have a label with the date of manufacture and model number. Without these, you cannot check to see if the seat has been recalled.
Does not come with instructions. You need them to know how to use the seat.
Is missing parts. Used car safety seats often come without important parts. Check with the manufacturer to make sure you can get the right parts.
Was recalled. You can find out by calling the manufacturer or by contacting the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) Vehicle Safety Hotline at 888/327-4236. You can also visit the NHTSA Web site.

Do not use seats that have been in a moderate or severe crash. Seats that were in a minor crash may still be safe to use, but some car safety seat manufacturers recommend replacing the seat after any crash, even a minor one. The NHTSA considers a crash minor if all of the following are true:

The vehicle could be driven away from the crash.
The vehicle door closest to the car safety seat was not damaged.
No one in the vehicle was injured.
The air bags did not go off.
You can’t see any damage to the car safety seat.

If you are unsure, call the manufacturer of the seat. See "Manufacturer phone numbers and Web sites" for manufacturer contact information.

About air bags

Front air bags

All new cars come with front air bags. When used with seat belts, air bags work very well to protect teenagers and adults. However, air bags can be very dangerous to children, particularly those riding in rear-facing car safety seats, and to preschool and young school-aged children who are not properly restrained. If your vehicle has a front passenger air bag, infants in rear-facing seats must ride in the back seat. Even in a relatively low-speed crash, the air bag can inflate, strike the car safety seat, and cause serious brain injury and death.
Vehicles with no back seat or a back seat that is not made for passengers are not the best choice for traveling with small children. However, the air bag can be turned off in some of these vehicles if the front seat is needed for a child passenger. See your vehicle owner’s manual for more information.

Side air bags

Side air bags improve safety for adults in side-impact crashes. Read your vehicle owner’s manual for more information about the air bags in your vehicle. Read your car safety seat manual and the vehicle owner’s manual for guidance on placing the seat next to a side air bag.

If you need installation help

If you have questions or need help installing your car safety seat, find a certified CPS technician. Lists of certified CPS technicians and child seat fitting stations are available on the following Web sites:
NHTSA (or call NHTSA Vehicle Safety Hotline at 888/327-4236)
SeatCheck (or call 866/SEATCHECK [866/732-8243])
National Child Passenger Safety Certified Technicians (or call 877/366-8154) This site provides information in Spanish and also provides a list of CPS technicians with enhanced training in protection of children with special needs.

Important reminders

Be a good role model. Make sure you always wear your seat belt. This will help your child form a lifelong habit of buckling up.
Never leave your child alone in or around cars. Any of the following can happen when a child is left alone in or around a vehicle:

He can die of heat stroke because temperatures can reach deadly levels in minutes.
He can be strangled by power windows, retracting seat belts, sunroofs, or accessories.
He can knock the vehicle into gear, setting it in motion.
He can be backed over when the vehicle backs up.
He can become trapped in the trunk of the vehicle.

Always read and follow the manufacturer’s instructions. If you do not have the manufacturer’s instructions for your car safety seat, write or call the company’s customer service department. They will ask you for the model number, name of seat, and date of manufacture. The manufacturer’s address and phone number are on the label on the seat. Also be sure to follow the instructions in your vehicle owner’s manual about using car safety seats. Some manufacturers’ instructions may be available on their Web sites.

Air Bag Safety

2011-04-03T02:09:00.000-07:00

An air bag can save your life. However, air bags and young children are a dangerous combination. The following information will help keep you and your children safe:

    * The safest place for all infants and children younger than 13 years to ride is in the back seat.
    * Never put an infant in the front seat of a car, truck, SUV, or van with a passenger air bag.
    * All children should be properly secured in car safety seats, belt-positioning booster seats, or the lap and shoulder belts correct for their size.
          o All infants and toddlers should ride in a rear-facing car safety seat until they are 2 years of age or until they reach the highest weight or height allowed by their car safety seat’s manufacturer.
          o All children 2 years or older, or those younger than 2 years who have outgrown the rear-facing weight or height limit for their car safety seat, should use a forward-facing car safety seat with a harness for as long as possible, up to the highest weight or height allowed by their car safety seat’s manufacturer.
          o All children whose weight or height is above the forward-facing limit for their car safety seat should use a belt-positioning booster seat until the vehicle seat belt fits properly, typically when they have reached 4 feet 9 inches in height and are between 8 and 12 years of age.
          o When children are old enough and large enough to use the vehicle seat belt alone, they should always use lap and shoulder seat belts for optimal protection.
    * Side air bags improve safety for adults in side impact crashes, but children who are not properly restrained and are seated near a side air bag may be at risk for serious injury. Check your vehicle owner’s manual to see what it says about children and side air bags.
    * New “advanced” air bags make travel safer for adults, but it is not yet known how they will affect the safety of children. Even though these new air bags may be safer, the back seat is still the safest place for children younger than 13 years to ride.

What Parents Can Do

    * Eliminate potential risks of air bags to children by buckling them in the back seat for every ride.
    * Plan ahead so that you do not have to drive with more children than can be safely restrained in the back seat.
    * For most families, installation of air bag on/off switches is not necessary. Air bags that are turned off provide no protection to older children, teens, parents, or other adults riding in the front seat.
    * Air bag on/off switches should only be used if your child has special health care needs for which your pediatrician recommends constant observation during travel and no other adult is available to ride in the back seat with your child.
    * If no other arrangement is possible and an older child must ride in the front seat, move the vehicle seat back as far as it can go, away from the air bag. Be sure the child is restrained properly for his size. Keep in mind that your child may still be at risk for injuries from the air bag. The back seat is the safest place for children to ride.

Source: Air Bag Safety (Copyright © 2011 American Academy of Pediatrics)

Car Safety Seats: Product Listing for 2011

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Infant-only seats
(Manufacturers’ names are boldfaced.)

Name	Harness Type	Rear-Facing Weight Limits	Height Limits	Price
Baby Trend EZ-Loc, EZ-Flex-Loc, Flex-Loc, Latch-Loc, Fixed Back, Adjustable Back	5-point	5-30 pounds	Up to 30"	$79.99-$129.99
Britax Chaperone	5-point	4-30 pounds	Up to 32"	$229.99
Chicco KeyFit Infant Car Seat, only sold as a travel system	5-point	4-22 pounds	Up to 30"	$300
Chicco KeyFit 30 Infant Car Seat	5-point	4-30 pounds	Up to 30"	$180-$190
Combi Navette 22, available only through Child Source	5-point	Birth-22 pounds	Up to 29"	$65
Combi Shuttle 33	5-point	Birth-33 pounds	Up to 33"	$170-$180
Combi Shuttle 35	5-point	Birth-35 pounds	Up to 33"	$199
Cosco Comfy Carry	5-point	4-22 pounds	Up to 29"	$59
CYBEX Aton	5-point	4-30 pounds	Up to 30"	$189.95
Dream on Me/Mia Moda Certo Infant Car Seat	5-point	4-22 pounds	Up to 29"	$119-$139
Eddie Bauer Deluxe Infant Car Seat	5-point	5-22 pounds	19"-29"	$100
Evenflo Discovery 5	5-point	5-22 pounds	19"-29"	$50-$60
Evenflo Embrace	5-point	5-22 pounds	19"-29"	$80-$100
Evenflo Secure Ride 35	5-point	5-35 pounds	19"-32"	$150
The First Years Via	5-point	4-22 pounds	Up to 30"	$139.99
The First Years Via 35	5-point	4-35 pounds	Up to 30"	$169.99
Graco SnugRide	5-point	5-22 pounds	Up to 29"	$89-$109
Graco SnugRide 30	5-point	4-30 pounds	Up to 30"	$119-$139
Graco SnugRide 35	5-point	5-35 pounds	Up to 32"	$149-$169
Maxi-Cosi Mico Infant Car Seat	5-point	5-22 pounds	19"-29"	$170
Orbit Baby Infant Car Seat and Car Seat Base G2	5-point	4-22 pounds	19"-29"	$400
Peg Perego Primo Viaggio SIP 30/30	5-point	5-30 pounds	Up to 30"	$249-$299
Safety 1st Comfy Carry	5-point	4-22 pounds	Up to 29"	$69
Safety 1st Comfy Carry Elite	5-point	4-22 pounds	Up to 29"	$75
Safety 1st Designer	5-point	5-22 pounds	19"-29"	$65-$80
Safety 1st OnBoard 35	5-point	4-35 pounds	Up to 32"	$99
Safety 1st OnBoard 35 Air	5-point	4-35 pounds	Up to 32"	$159-$179
Teutonia USA t-tario 35	5-point	5-35 pounds	Up to 32"	$225

Convertible seats

Name	Harness Type	Rear-Facing Weight Limits, Height Limits	Forward-Facing Weight Limits, Height Limits	Price
Britax Advocate 70 CS	5-point	5-40 pounds, up to 49"	20-70 pounds, up to 49"	$369.99
Britax Boulevard 70	5-point	5-40 pounds, up to 49"	20-70 pounds, up to 49"	$309.99
Britax Boulevard 70 CS	5-point	5-40 pounds, up to 49"	20-70 pounds, up to 49"	$329.99
Britax Marathon 70	5-point	5-35 pounds	20-70 pounds, up to 49"	$279.99
Britax Marathon Classic (ONLY sold at Target)	5-point	5-40 pounds, up to 49"	20-65 pounds, up to 40"	$159.99
Britax Roundabout 50 Classic (ONLY sold at Target)	5-point	5-35 pounds, up to 49"	20-50 pounds, up to 40"	$229.99
Britax Roundabout 55	5-point	5-40 pounds. up to 46"	20-55 pounds, up to 46"	$199.99
Combi Coccoro	5-point	5-33 pounds	20-40 pounds	$239
Combi Zeus Turn	5-point	5-22 pounds	20-40 pounds	$300
Combi Zeus 360	5-point	5-33 pounds	20-40 pounds	$330
Cosco Scenera	5-point	5-35 pounds, 19"-36"	22-40 pounds, 34"-43"	$50
Cosco Scenera 40RF	5-point, shield	5-40 pounds, 19"-40"	22-40 pounds, 34"-43"	$50-$60
Evenflo Momentum 65	5-point	5–40 pounds AND top of head is at least 1" below the top of the child restraint headrest	20–65 pounds, less than 50"	$160-$190
Evenflo Titan Elite	5-point	5-35 pounds, At least 19" AND top of head is at least 1" below the top of the child restraint seat back	20-50 pounds, less than 47"	$50-$100
Evenflo Tribute 5	5-point	5-35 pounds, At least 19" AND top of head is at least 1" below the top of the child restraint seat back	20-40 pounds, less than 40"	$45-$60
Evenflo Triumph Advance 65 LX, DLX, or Premier	5-point	5-40 pounds, At least 19" AND top of head is at least 1" below the top of the child restraint seat back	20-65 pounds, less than 50"	$140-$180
The First Years True Fit 630	5-point	5-22 pounds without upper seat back installed 5-35 pounds with upper seat back installed	23-65 pounds, up to 50"	$189.99
The First Years Tru Fit Recline C650	5-point	5-22 pounds without upper seat back installed 5-35 pounds with upper seat back installed	23-65 pounds, up to 50"	$199.99
The First Years True Fit Rebound C670	5-point	5-22 pounds without upper seat back installed 5-35 pounds with upper seat back installed	23-65 pounds, up to 50"	$239.99
Graco ComfortSport	5-point	5-30 pounds	20-40 pounds, up to 40"	$79-$99
Graco My Ride 65	5-point	5-40 pounds	20-65 pounds, up to 50"	$149
Maxi-Cosi Priori	5-point	5-35 pounds, 19"-36"	22-40 pounds, 34"-43"	$200-$230
Orbit Baby Toddler Seat	5-point	15-35 pounds	20-50 pounds, up to 49"	$360
Recaro ProRIDE	5-point	5-35 pounds	20-70 pounds, up to 50"	$279.99
Recaro Signo	5-point	5-35 pounds	20–70 pounds, up to 50"	$299.99
Safety 1st Complete Air 65	5-point	5-40 pounds, 19"-40"	22–65 pounds, 34"–52"	$180
Safety 1st onSide Air	5-point	5-40 pounds, 19"-40"	22–40 pounds, 35"–43"	$100
Sunshine Kids Radian65SL Car Seat	5-point	5-40 pounds	20-65 pounds, up to 53"; Up to 65 pounds with lower anchors	$229.99
Sunshine Kids Radian80SL Car Seat	5-point	5-45 pounds	20-80 pounds, up to 53" Up to 80 pounds with lower anchors	$269.99
Sunshine Kids RadianXTSL Car Seat	5-point	5-45 pounds	20-80 pounds, up to 53" Up to 80 pounds with lower anchors	$299.99
Tripleplay Products/Lilly Gold 5-n-1 Sit’n’Stroll	5-point	5-30 pounds	20-40 pounds	$249.95

3-in-1 seats
(Can be used rear-facing, forward-facing, or as a belt positioning booster.)

Name	rear-Facing Weight Limits, Height Limits	Forward-Facing Weight Limits, Height Limits	Booster Weight Limits, Height Limits	Price
Eddie Bauer Deluxe	5-35 pounds, 19"-36"	22-40 pounds, 34"-43"	40-80 pounds, 43"-52"	$120-$130
Eddie Bauer Deluxe 3-in-1 Convertible Car Seat	5-35 pounds, 19"-36"	22-50 pounds, 34"-45"	40-100 pounds, less than 57"	$200
Evenflo Symphony 65	5-40 pounds, AND top of head is at least 1" below the top of the child restraint headrest	20-65 pounds, 50" or less	40-100 pounds, less than 57"	$200
Graco Smart Seat	5-40 pounds, AND top of head is greater than 1" from top of seat	20-65 pounds, Maximum height 50"	30-100 pounds, Maximum height 57"	$299-$329
Safety 1st All-in-One, Alpha Omega	5-35 pounds, 19"-36"	22-50 pounds, 35"-45"	40-80 pounds, 43"-52"	$120-$130
Safety 1st Alpha Omega Elite	5-35 pounds, 19"-36"	22-50 pounds, 34"-45"	40-100 pounds, 34"-52"	$160

Combination seats
(Can be used with 5-point harness or as belt-positioning booster.)

Name	Weight Limits, height Limits With Harness	Weight Limits, Height Limits as Booster	Price
Britax Frontier 85 harness-2-Booster	2 years of age and 25-85 pounds, 30"-57"	40-120 pounds, 42"-65"	$279.99
Cosco High Back Booster	22-40 pounds, 34"-43"	40-80 pounds, 43"-52"	$50
Cosco Ventura	22-40 pounds, 34"-43"	40-80 pounds, 43"-52"	$60
Eddie Bauer Adjustable High Back Booster	22-40 pounds, 34"-43"	40-100 pounds, 43"-48"	$99
Eddie Bauer Deluxe High Back Booster	22-40 pounds, 34"-43"	40-100 pounds, 43"-52"	$120
Evenflo Express, Chase	20-40 pounds At least 29" AND shoulders below top harness slots	40-100 pounds 43.5"-54" AND ears below top of child restraint headrest	$50-$70
Evenflo Generations 65	20-65 pounds	40-100 pounds 44"-57" AND ears below top of child restraint headrest	$100
Evenflo Maestro	20-50 pounds	40-100 pounds 44"-57" AND ears below top of child restraint headrest	$80
Graco Nautilus	20-65 pounds 27"-52" if shoulders are below top harness slots	High back: 30-100 pounds, 38"-57" Backless: 40-100 pounds, 40"-57"	$179.99
Graco Nautilus Elite	20-65 pounds 27"-52" if shoulders are below top harness slots	High back: 30-100 pounds, 38"-57" Backless: 40-100 pounds, 40"-57"	$199.99
Kiddy World Plus	20-40 pounds, up to 40" with protection shield	40-100 pounds, up to 60"	$269.99
KIDSEmbrace Toddler/Booster Car Seat	22-65 pounds, 29"-52"	30-100 pounds, 38"-57"	$159.99
Recaro ProSPORT	20-90 pounds, 27"-50"	30-120 pounds, 37"-59"	$279.99
Safety 1st Go Hybrid Booster	22–65 pounds, 34"–52"	40–100 pounds 43"–57"	$199.99
Safety 1st Rumi Air Booster or Essential Air	22–65 pounds, 34"–52"	40–100 pounds 43"–57"	$179
Safety 1st Summit	22-40 pounds, 34"-43"	40-100 pounds, 43"-52"	$99.99
Safety 1st Vantage, Surveyor	22-40 pounds, 34"-43"	40-100 pounds, 43"-52"	$80

Forward-facing only toddler seats

Name	Harness Type	Weight Limits	Height Limits	Price
firstSEAT Revolution	5-point	22-60 pounds	Up to 50"	$299

Belt-positioning booster seats

Name	Type	Weight Limits	Height Limits	Price
Britax Parkway SG	High back converts to backless	40-120 pounds (high back and backless)	38"-63" (high back and backless)	$119.99
Britax Parkway SGL	High back converst to backless	40-120 pounds with lower anchors(high back and backless)	38"-63" (high back and backless)	$149.99
Chicco KeyFit Strada Booster	High back converts to backless	High back: 33-100 pounds Backless: 40-100 pounds	High back: 38"-57" Backless: 38"-57"	$150
Clek Olli Booster Seat	Backless	40-120 pounds	40"-57"	$79.99-$99.99
Clek Oobr Booster Seat	High back converts to backless	High back: 33-100 pounds Backless: 40-100 pounds	High back: 38"-57" Backless; 40"-57"	$274.99-$299.99
Clek Ozzi Booster Seat	Backless	40-120 pounds	40"-57"	$69.99
Combi Kobuk Air Thru	High back	33-125 pounds	33"-57"	$80
Cosco Ambassador, High Rise	Backless	30-100 pounds	34"-57"	$18
Cosco Complete Voyager	High back	40-80 pounds	43"-52"	$20-$25
Cosco Protek	High back	30-100 pounds	34"-57"	$30-$50
Cosco Pronto!	High back	30-100 pounds	34"-57"	$35
Cosco Disney Pronto!	Backless	40-100 pounds	43"-57"	$24
CYBEX Solution X-fit	High back	33-100 pounds	38"-60"	$199.95
Evenflo Big Kid, Big Kid Amp	Backless	40-100 pounds	40"-57" and whose ears below top of vehicle seat headrest	$15-$25
Evenflo Big Kid	High back converts to backless	High back: 30-100 pounds Backless: 40-100 pounds	High back: 38"-57" Backless: 40"-57" And ears below top of vehicle seat back	$30-$60
Evenflo Maestro Booster	High back	40-100 pounds	44"-57" AND ears below top of child restraint headrest	$30-$40
The First Years B505 Compass Booster	High back	30-100 pounds	38"-57"	$59.99
The First Years B540 Compass Booster	High back	30-100 pounds	38"-57"	$79.99
The First Years Pathway B570 Booster	High back	30-100 pounds	38"-57"	$99.99
Graco TurboBooster	Backless	40-100 pounds	40"-57"	$24.99-$29.99
Graco TurboBooster	High back converts to backless	High back: 30-100 pounds Backless: 40-100 pounds	High back: 38"-57" Backless: 40"-57"	$49.99- $69.99
Harmony Baby Armor Youth Booster Seat	High back converts to backless	30-110 pounds (high back and backless)	34"-57" (high back and backless)	$79.99
Harmony Cruz Youth Booster Seat	Backless	30-100 pounds	34"-57"	$18.99
Harmony Dreamtime Comfort Booster Seat	High back converts to backless	30-110 pounds (high back and backless)	34"-57" (high back and backless)	$49.99
Harmony LiteRiderYouth Booster Seat	Backless	30-100 pounds	34"-57"	$13.50
Harmony SECURE Comfort Deluxe Booster Seat	Backless	30-110 pounds	34"-57"	$19.99
Jeffco Fibres Grizzly Bear	High back	40-100 pounds	33"-57"	$119
Jeffco Fibres Polar Bear	High back	30-100 pounds	33"-57"	$129
Jeffco Fibres Teddy Bear	High back	30-80 pounds	33"-57"	$109
Maxi-Cosi Rodi	High back	30-100 pounds	34"-57"	$130-$140
Maxi-Cosi Rodi XR	High back	30-100 pounds	34"-57"	$160
ProRider Booster Car Seat	Backless	33-80 pounds	60" or less	$17.95 )online ordering only)
Recaro ProBooster	High back	30-120 pounds	37"-61"	$129.99
Recaro VIVO	High back	30-100 pounds	37"-59"	$89.99
Safety 1st Boost Air	High back	30-100 pounds	34"-57"	$79
Sunshine Kids Monterey Booster Seat	High back converts to backless	30-120 pounds Up to120 pounds with lower anchors	Up to 63"	$139.99
Sunshine Kids SantaFe Booster	Backless	30-120 pounds with lower anchors	38"-63"	$69.95

Travel Vests

Name	Weight Limits (Age Limits)	Price
E-Z-ON 103Z Adjustable Vest (rear zipper closure)	20–168 pounds, ages 2–adult	$120
E-Z-ON 203 Adjustable Vest (mini push button front closure)	20-100 pounds, ages 2-smaller-sized children (XSmall, Small)	$120
E-Z-ON 203/225 All-in-One LATCH Vest	20-100 pounds, ages 2-smaller-sized children (XSmall, Small, Medium)	$145
E-Z-ON 86Y Harness	100-168 pounds	$60-$80
E-Z-ON Kid-YC Harness	Up to 100 pounds	$65
E-Z-ON 101Z Non-adjustable Vest (rear zipper closure)	20-168 pounds, ages 2-adult	$120-$140
E-Z-ON 101 Push Button Non-adjustable Vest	101 Mini Push Button: 20-65 pounds 101 Standard Push Button: larger children-adult up to 168 pounds	$120-$140
Safety Angel Booster Harness	30-100 pounds, must be used with a booster seat	$48
Safe Traffic Systems RideSafer Travel Vest	Small vest: 35-60 pounds (3-6 years) Large vest: 50-80 pounds (5-10 years)	$124 (SM) $129 (LG)

Built-in (integrated) seats

Built-in or integrated child safety seats are available on selected models from some motor vehicle manufacturers. Check with the vehicle manufacturers for specifics.

Manufacturer phone numbers and Web sites

For more information on the seats listed in this guide, please contact the individual manufacturers.

Manufacturer	Phone Number	Web site
Baby Trend	800/328-7363	www.babytrend.com
Britax	888/427-4829	www.britaxusa.com
Chicco	877/424-4226	www.chiccousa.com
Clek	248/284-2462	www.clekinc.com
Combi	800/992-6624	www.combiusa.com
Cosco, Inc.	800/544-1108	www.coscojuvenile.com
CYBEX (Regal Lager, Inc. distributor)	800/593-5522	www.reallager.com
Dream on Me/Mia Moda	732/748-1300	www.miamodainc.com
Eddie Bauer	800/544-1108	www.djgusa.com/eddiebauer
Evenflo	800/233-5921	www.evenflo.com
E-Z-ON Products Inc. of Florida	800/323-6598	www.ezonpro.com
The First Years	888/899-2229	www.learningcurve.com
FirstSEAT	408/607-6294	www.firstseat.com
Graco Children's Products Inc. (Newell Rubbermaid)	800/345-4109	www.gracobaby.com
Harmony Juvenile Products	877/306-1001	www.harmonyjuvenile.com
Jeffco Fibres (formerly LaRoche Brothers)	800/225-7352	www.jeffcofibres.com
KiddyUSA	678/377-3309	www.kiddyusa.com
KIDSEmbrace	866/947-3287	www.kidsembrace.com
Maxi-Cosi	800/951-4113	www.maxi-cosi.com
Orbit Baby	877/672-2229	www.orbitbaby.com
Peg Perego USA, Inc.	800/671-1701	www.pegperego.com
ProRider, Inc.	800/642-3123	www.prorider.com
Recaro of North America	800/873-2276	www.recarokids.com
Safe Traffic System, Inc.	773/509-0530	www.safetrafficsystem.com
Safety 1st	800/544-1108	www.safety1st.com
Safety Angel	877/431-1678	www.safetyangel.com
Sunshine Kids Juvenile Products	888/336-7909	www.skjp.com
teutonia USA (Newell Rubbermaid)	800/345-4109	www.teutoniausa.com
TriplePlay Products, LLC/LillyGold	800/829-1625	www.lillygold.com

The NHTSA has put together the car safety seat Ease of Use Ratings to educate parents and caregivers about car safety seat features and to assist them in finding the appropriate seat for their needs. You can view this list at www.nhtsa.gov/Safety/Ease-of-Use.

Although the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) is not a testing or standard-setting organization, this guide sets forth the AAP recommendations based on the peer-reviewed literature available at the time of its publication, and sets forth some of the factors that parents should consider before selecting and using a car safety seat.

The appearance of the name American Academy of Pediatrics does not constitute a guarantee or endorsement of the products listed or the claims made. Phone numbers and Web site addresses are as current as possible, but may change at any time.

The information contained in this publication should not be used as a substitute for the medical care and advice of your pediatrician. There may be variations in treatment that your pediatrician may recommend based on individual facts and circumstances.

Prices are approximate and may vary.

Car Safety Seat

Children Undoing Buckles

Second-hand Child Seats

Child Seat Instructions

Buying a Child Seat : Checklist

Common Problems

Using Child Seats

Fitting Child Seats

Choosing Child Seats

Other Vehicles

Using the Right Child Restraint

Child Seat and Seat Belt Laws

Duty of Care

Carrying Other People’s Children Safely

Carrying Children Safely

Booster Seat Safety

Car Safety Seat Checkup

Car Safety Seat

Car Safety Seats: Information for Families for 2011

Infants and toddlers—rear-facing

Types of rear-facing car safety seats

Types of Car Safety Seats at a Glance

Installation tips for rear-facing seats

Common questions

Toddlers and preschoolers—forward-facing

Types of car safety restraints

Installation tips for forward-facing seats

Common questions

School-aged children—booster seats

Types of booster seats

Installation tips for booster seats

Common questions

Older children—seat belts

Using a seat belt

Common Questions

Shopping for car safety seats

About air bags

Front air bags

Side air bags

If you need installation help

Important reminders

Air Bag Safety

Car Safety Seats: Product Listing for 2011

Convertible seats

3-in-1 seats (Can be used rear-facing, forward-facing, or as a belt positioning booster.)

Combination seats (Can be used with 5-point harness or as belt-positioning booster.)

Forward-facing only toddler seats

Belt-positioning booster seats

Travel Vests

Built-in (integrated) seats

Manufacturer phone numbers and Web sites

3-in-1 seats
(Can be used rear-facing, forward-facing, or as a belt positioning booster.)

Combination seats
(Can be used with 5-point harness or as belt-positioning booster.)