When Is Your Child Ready For A Booster Car Seat

Writen by Meg M

When your child reaches the age of three or four, they will probably be ready to graduate from baby car seat use. Many parents are unaware that simply placing them in a seat belt is not enough. In order to ensure safety and avoid possible internal injury or even death, many experts agree that booster car seats are necessary for children up to the age of nine! The laws vary from state to state. For more detailed information on booster car seats and the child safety seat laws in your area, please contact your local officials.

Our son uses a booster car seat. It's not nearly as troublesome as a traditional baby car seat. The booster car seat is easy to switch from vehicle to vehicle. My son loves his booster seat. He feels like he is sitting in the regular car seat and he is able to see out the window and we know that he is safe. By being able to see out the window we avoid the possibility of carsickness, since not being able to see out the window often creates this situation.

Booster car seat styles include molded plastic support for the entire back, along with comfortable cushioning. These seats have the advantage of supporting the entire spine and neck, and this is also a good option for parents looking for a new booster car seat. These booster car seats are especially good for older children, and is an option to consider as your child grows.

One thing to keep in mind when choosing a booster car seat for your child: try not to pick out a babyish print or style. If your child is supposed to use this seat for much of their childhood, they are not going to want to be in a booster car seat that looks like a baby seat. Think long term and go with a seat with neutral colors and a sleek, stylish design that your child won't become embarrassed of later. Also, keep in mind that you could have other children down the road, so it's best to choose a color and design that is suitable for a boy or girl.

We have found the transition from toddler car seat to booster car seat to be an easy one to make for us and our child.

Children are much safer riding in a booster car seat until they reach 80 pounds, than they are by using the vehicle's seat and seat belts which were designed for adults. Remember, it is against the law to place a young child in the regular seat belt of a vehicle.

Always remember to read and follow the manufacturers instructions that come with your booster car seat to insure that you have installed it correctly and are using the booster car seat properly. A 2004 study of child safety seat use found that about 73% were used improperly. Improper use defeats the whole purpose of using a booster car seat.

Mommy Meg M. is a mother of three and publisher of the new baby site, Online Baby Zone. A site dedicated to providing information on all things related to babies. Visit Online Baby Zone to learn about early education for baby.