Proper use of child safety seats

Child safety seats

Proper use

Child safety seat system

Laws

Training

Resources

The selection of the proper child safety seat is often confusing. Parents/caregivers must consider the weight and height of the child when selecting the proper seat. You must look at the weight and height recommendations made by the child safety seat manufacturer.

This chart shows the recommended type of child safety seat that you should be using for your child, based on weight and age.

Proper child safety seat use Buckle Everyone. Children age 12 and under in back!
	Infants	Toddlers/Preschool	Young Children
Weight:	Birth to at least 1 year and 20-22 lbs.	Over 20 lbs. to about 40 lbs. and over 1 year	Over 40 lbs. up to about 80 lbs. or more
Type of seat:	Infant only or rear-facing convertible	Convertible/Forward-facing	Belt-positioning booster seat
Seat position:	Rear-facing only	Forward-facing	Forward-facing
Always make sure:	Children to at least one year and at least 20 lbs. in rear-facing seats in back seat Harness straps at or below shoulder level	Harness straps should be at or above shoulders Most seats require top slot for forward-facing	Belt-positioning booster seats must be used with both lap and shoulder belt
Warning:	Do not place infants in the front seat of cars with air bags	All children age 12 and under ride in the back seat	Make sure the lap belt fits low and tight to avoid abdominal injuries

Return to top