Things You'll Need:
- Nothing - this is just a guide.
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Step 1
The type of seat your child needs depends on several things. Some of these things are age, size, and the type of vehicle he or she will be traveling in. To be sure your child is using the most appropriate seat, please read the following guidelines.
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Step 2
Infants should only be rear-facing. The type of seat needed is an infant-only, or rear-facing convertible. All infants should always ride rear-facing until they are 1 year of age and weigh at least 20 pounds. Some parents recommend keeping children rear-facing for as long as 6 years. This is a personal decision only you can make.
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Step 3
Toddlers and preschoolers can be rear-facing or front-facing. The type of seat you will need is a convertible, combination, or other forward-facing seat. Children 1 year of age and at least 20 pounds can ride forward-facing. It is best to ride rear-facing for as long as possible.
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Step 4
School-aged children should be in booster seats. Look up your state laws - in Missouri, they have to be in a booster seat of some type until they are at least 8 years old. Booster seats are for older children who have outgrown their forward-facing car safety seats. Children should stay in a booster seat until the seat belt fits correctly, which is usually when a child reaches about 4'9" in height and is between 8 and 12 years of age.
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Step 5
Older children (and adults) should always wear seat belts. Children who have outgrown their booster seats should ride in a lap AND shoulder belt. They should ride in the back seat until they are 13 years of age.
