Whether you are a new parent or you are expecting to be, parenting does come with a lot of responsibilities. From a baby's crib and monitor to dozens of diaper boxes, there are so many things that are supposed to be on your checklist. However, did you know why you should consider adding the name of a better car seat for your beloved child in your checklist?
No matter what, the foremost crucial job of parenting is to keep your child safe from harm and diseases. Many studies show that thousands of children get injured because of car accidents. Although these are tragic accidents, parents need to follow proper safety precautions beforehand to prevent such circumstances.
That is why it is crucial to choose the right car seat for your child. As there are so many options available on the market, it is really confusing for parents to choose the right one. Look no further; this brief guide will help you find the best car seat for your little one.
When and for how long will my child need a car seat?
You will need a child car seat from the day you are coming from the hospital with the baby until the time he or she is grown enough to sit comfortably in a regular car seat. In simple words, your child needs a child car seat until the age of 10.
What type of car seat do I need?
There are so many car seat categories available, but the suitability of a car seat for you depends on various factors, including your baby's age, size, and growth. Some common types of child car seats that can be suitable for you are mentioned below.
For newborns
- Infant-only car seats: These types of seats are lightweight and portable. Infant car seats are designed for infants until their weight is around 20 to 22 pounds and their head is within 1 inch from the top of the car seat. With this cat seat, you can remove the seat without waking up or unstrapping your child.
- Convertible car seat: Although infant-only car seats fit appropriately for newborns, a convertible car seat may also be a good option for newborns. The convertible car seats can be either rear-facing seats or forward-facing seats. And the best part is that these seats are very long-lasting. However, these seats are not portable.
For toddlers
- Forward-facing car seat: A forward-facing car seat is quite similar to a convertible seat as they both use a five-point harness, but it is not portable like the infant car seats.
- Combination car seats: These types of car seats can be used as forward-facing seats for toddlers and preschoolers, or as booster seats.
When do I need to upgrade the car seat?
Choosing the right car seat and having a clear understanding about when it is required to change the seat might seem to be very difficult for many people. Here are a few things to keep in mind.
- Keep your baby in a rear-facing car until the age of two, or until his or her height or weight exceed the seat's limit. After that, use a forward-facing car seat.
- Your child requires a booster seat at the age of 8 to 12 years.
- Even if your child is ready to use the regular car belts, do not let your child ride in the front seat before the age of 13.
- Make sure to replace a car seat when it is torn or damaged in any way.
Read the manual very carefully for the installation of a child's car seat. Road safety is very crucial, especially when you have your baby in the back seat. Also, having good knowledge of the product you decided to purchase for your child would be a wise decision.
