How to Modify a CARES (Child Aviation Restraint System) for Toddlers and Children

Use a car seat, rather than CARES, for a child who weighs less than 22 pounds.

CARES (Child Aviation Restraint System) is a restraint system that is less cumbersome than carrying a child's car seat through the airport and on to the plane. The restraint consists of a shoulder harness attached to a belt that wraps around the back of the airline seat. The plane's seat belt goes through the bottom of the harness straps. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has approved CARES for kids who weigh between 22 and 44 pounds. However, CARES doesn't include a strap between a child's legs, so she may slide down if she falls asleep. You can easily attach a strap that will prevent your youngster from sliding down in her seat during the flight.

Things You'll Need

• Hook-and-loop fastener strap, 2 inches wide and 36 inches long

Instructions

1. Attach the CARES to the airplane seat back following the CARES installation manual.

2. Slide one end of the hook-and-loop fastener strap under the CARES strap that goes around the seat back, in between the harness straps. Fold over several inches of the hook-and-loop fastener strap to secure it around the CARES strap. Make sure the hook-and-loop fastener strap hangs down the middle of the seat.

3. Place your child in the CARES. Sit your child in the seat so that she is sitting on the dangling hook-and-loop fastener. Follow the CARES instructions to fasten the harness to the plane seat's lap belt. Pull the hook-and-loop fastener strap between the child's legs and loop it around the plane seat's lap belt, in between the harness strap loops. Make sure the hook-and-loop fastener strap isn't too tight, and then fold it over to secure it.

Tips & Warnings

• You can create your own strap using a cloth belt and some Velcro.

• CARES can NOT be used as an automobile restraint.

• CARES is for children 1 and older, 22 - 44 lbs., and up to 40" tall.

• Check your car seat at baggage check.

• CARES cannot be used as an automobile restraint.

References

• FAA: FAA Approves New Child Safety Device

Resources

• Amazon.com: CARES Child Aviation Restraint System
• Amazon.com: Velcro USA 90440 Velstrap Strap With Handle, Black
• Kids Fly Safe: CARES