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	The type of seat your child needs depends on your child’s age, weight, height, and type of vehicle you own. The safest car seat is one that your child fits snugly in and one that fits securely in your car.

Test out the car seat in your car before the baby arrives. If the car seat does not fit securely, then return the seat for a different model.

Car Seats and Car Seat Systems

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends that all infants should ride rear-facing until they have reached a minimum of 1 year of age and weigh at least 20 pounds. It is best to ride rear-facing for as long as possible. The AAP, as of April 2009, is encouraging children to ride rear-facing until they have reached the height and weight limits of the convertible car seat, or until the minimum age of 2. Children are most protected in an appropriate rear-facing car seat.

Car seats have both height and weight limits. If your child has exceeded either the height or the weight limit of the infant car seat, it is time to change to a convertible car seat. If you are unsure about your car seat’s height limits, make sure that your baby’s head is at least 1 inch from the top of the car seat.

Be sure to ALWAYS read your car seat owner's manual and your vehicle owner's manual for proper and safe use of your child restraint.

Learn more about:

Infant Only car seats

Convertible car seats

Car beds

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 Author : Diba Tillery RN, BSN, IBCLC, CPST