Are Booster Seats Really Necessary?
Absolutely. Booster seats are far more important than many people think. What parents may not consider is that vehicle belt systems are designed for adults, not children. A vehicle seat belt typically does not fit the average child until they are 4' 9" in height, yet it's vital that your vehicle's shoulder and lap belts be correctly positioned on your growing child in order to provide effective protection in a crash. The resolution to this problem is a belt-positioning booster seat. Once your child outgrows a convertible car seat, it's essential that your child ride in a belt-positioning booster seat for adequate protection.
Consider these guidelines when positioning your child in a booster seat:
Your child's legs
When correctly positioned in a booster seat, your child's knees should bend at the vehicle seat edge.
Accurate shoulder belt positioning
In case of an accident, it's critical that the vehicle shoulder belt passes across your child's shoulder and collar bone, not neck or face. Be sure to adjust the positioning of the belts as your child grows.
Fit of vehicle lap belt
It's critical that the vehicle lap belt be snugly positioned below the hips, where strong bones can withstand the force of a crash better than the abdomen.
Head & neck support
Head and neck support is especially critical in low, bench-style seats without headrests, like those found in many mini-vans. If your vehicle does not have a headrest in the backseat, be sure to use a high-back booster for your child.
Right size for your child
To be safely protected by a booster seat, your child must meet certain size requirements. Be sure your child meets the manufacturer's specifications for your booster seat.
Consider these guidelines when positioning your child in a booster seat:
Your child's legs
When correctly positioned in a booster seat, your child's knees should bend at the vehicle seat edge.
Accurate shoulder belt positioning
In case of an accident, it's critical that the vehicle shoulder belt passes across your child's shoulder and collar bone, not neck or face. Be sure to adjust the positioning of the belts as your child grows.
Fit of vehicle lap belt
It's critical that the vehicle lap belt be snugly positioned below the hips, where strong bones can withstand the force of a crash better than the abdomen.
Head & neck support
Head and neck support is especially critical in low, bench-style seats without headrests, like those found in many mini-vans. If your vehicle does not have a headrest in the backseat, be sure to use a high-back booster for your child.
Right size for your child
To be safely protected by a booster seat, your child must meet certain size requirements. Be sure your child meets the manufacturer's specifications for your booster seat.
