Forward-facing car seat labeled "FORWARD-FACING CAR SEAT"

Transitioning from Rear-Facing to Forward-Facing

  • Turn the convertible car seat forward only once the child reaches the manufacturer's rear-facing height or weight limits.
  • Continue using the forward-facing seat until the child reaches the manufacturer's maximum height or weight capacity.
  • Always use a tether for all forward-facing installations.
  • Back seat is the safest location for your child.

Selecting a Car Seat

  • Does the car seat fit your child correctly?
  • Is the car seat easy for you to use?
  • Does the car seat fit your car?
  • Can you install the car seat correctly every time?
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Installing a Car Seat

  • Location: The back seat is always the safest.
  • Read the Manual: Check the car seat manual or look online to learn how to install the seat correctly.
  • The Right Path: If you are using a "convertible" seat, it will have two different paths for the seat belt or LATCH strap. Make sure you use the path labeled "Rear-Facing." Check your manual if you aren't sure which is which.
  • The "1-Inch Rule": Once installed, the seat should not move more than 1 inch in any direction at the belt path.
  • LATCH vs. Seat Belt: Use one or the other—never both at the same time.
  • Check for LATCH: Read your car’s manual to see if it has LATCH anchors and where they are located. If no info is given in manual, discontinue use of the lower anchors and use the vehicle seat belt to secure a car seat for a child heavier than 40 pounds. 
  • Use the Tether: Always use the vehicle’s top tether strap. It reduces head movement in a crash by up to 5 inches and is the difference between a brain injury and no injury at all.

Securing Your Child

  • Harness Height: Straps should be at or below the child’s shoulders.
  • Chest Clip: Keep the clip level with the armpits.
  • The "Pinch Test": Adjust the harness straps so you cannot pinch the webbing together vertically and the harness is touching the child.
  • No Bulky Clothes: Do not put your child in a puffy coat or snowsuit under the straps. Put a blanket over them after they are buckled.

Tips for Success

Use a Booster Seat When Your Child Outgrows Their Car Seat

Use a booster seat after outgrowing the car seat harness weight/height limits, or if the child's ears are above the seat back.

Switch to Booster Mode at the Harness Limit

Convert a forward-facing car seat to a belt-positioning booster when the child reaches the maximum height or weight for the harness.

Car Seat Recommendations

Age-based car seat recommendations: Birth-1 year (rear-facing car seat), 2-5 years (forward-facing car seat), 4-10 years (booster seat), 12+ years (seat belt)
Is your child ready for a booster seat? Click for more info