What Baby Car Seat Will Fit My Kid?
Whether it’s a ride to the grocery store, a friend’s house or even a long road trip, car rides with kids can be quite worrisome. Statistically speaking, 50% of the entire population is unaware of the right type and proper usage of car seats for their kids. A child seat, also known as a child restraint system or kids seat, is simply an additional seat designed for kids of all ages until they are old enough to meet the height and weight requirements of sitting in the actual car seat.
We compiled a quick read for you that will not only help you understand what type and size of car set you need for your kids, but also how important a baby car seat is.
Why Do You Need Car Seats for Kids?
So, before we move on to the types and sizes of car seats, here’s a quick list of reasons why you need to invest in the right car seat for your little one.
Safety
The most important reason for investing in a car seat is your child’s safety. A car seat is designed to keep your little one buckled up and prevent them from becoming projectiles in the unfortunate case of an accident.
Laws
Most Western developed countries have advanced laws regarding child car seats. This means you are legally entitled to have your little one in a car seat until they reach a certain height and a specific age — usually 12 years in most countries. So, when you’re buying a car seat, you’re being a responsible parent and a citizen of your state.
Ease and convenience
Having your kid buckled into a seat can help you be at ease while driving. This can make traveling a breeze since your child can’t move around or hurt themselves in any way.
Kids Car Seat Size Summary
We have divided car seats and sizes based on age.
Infants
If you have a child under the age of two, you need to invest in a rear-facing car seat. These are specifically sized for kids under two, so once your child outgrows them, you will have to invest in the next size. A rear-facing seat is safer in case of a crash, protecting the child’s neck and spinal cord.
Toddlers
Above the age of two, the child should be strapped into a front-facing car seat. This is because a rear-facing car seat is not the right size and will not fit your child anymore, limiting your child’s limbs in case of an accident.
Kindergarteners
Once your child reaches the school-going age, you can switch to a booster seat for them. This is simply a seat that will help your child buckle into your car’s seat belts. This stage lasts as long as your child doesn’t fit in the actual car seat, which is around 9-12 years of age. After this, they can sit in the actual car seat with a belt on at all times.
Wrapping It Up
Car seats for your children are a necessity, not because it’s the law, but because they will keep them safe at all times. To ensure maximum safety, simply switch seats according to age group and size. Happy travels!