When Should a Child Transition to a Different Car Seat?
The transition to a different car seat depends on the child's age, weight, and height:
- From Infant to Convertible Car Seat: Typically, this transition occurs when the child reaches the maximum weight or height for the infant seat, usually around 2 years old. - From Rear-Facing to Forward-Facing: Children should remain in a rear-facing seat until at least 2 years old or until they exceed the seat's weight or height limits. - From Forward-Facing to Booster Seat: This usually happens when a child is around 4 years old and has outgrown their forward-facing seat. - From Booster Seat to Seat Belt: Children can switch to using a seat belt once they are at least 4 feet 9 inches tall, typically between 8 to 12 years old.