Darcy Lesniak, MD Pediatrics Columbia St. Mary’s Germantown

September 06, 2011

Rear-facing infant seat or rear-facing convertible seat:

• Birth to age 2 yrs OR once the height or weight exceed the convertible seat max
• Child’s height must be beneath at least one inch below top of seat back
• Feet can rest safely against back seat of car

Forward-facing car seat, convertible seat or combination seat:

• Age 2 yrs and up
• Continue until max height and weight are reached• 5-point harness unless shoulders are above top strap slots• Head should be supported up to just above the ears

Booster seat:

• Use once child grows out of previous convertible or combination seat
• 40-80 lbs is usual weight range
• Typically used for ages 4-8 yrs, but should be based more on height and weight• Continue as long as less than 57" (4' 9")

Safety belt:

• >57"
• Usually between 8-12 years old when child grows out of booster seat
• ALL passengers including parents!• Back seat is safest under the age of 13 yrs