Car Seats
Car Seat Recommendations
We receive many questions from our parents about car seats and the most current recommendations. Children should be properly restrained in a car seat, booster seat, or seat belt–depending on their age.
Rear-Facing Car Seats
Infants should stay in rear-facing car seats as long as possible. Ideally, infants should remain in rear-facing car seats until they reach 2 years of age or until the infant reaches the upper weight and height limit for that particular seat.
Front-Facing Car Seats
These car seats can be utilized until the children reach the height/weight limits (and this varies depending on the make/model of the car seat, so be sure to read the manual when you install the seat).
Booster Seats
Once children outgrow a front-facing car seat, they should use a booster seat until they are big enough for the seat belt to fit correctly. Most children need to remain in booster seats through at least 8 years of age. Children can stop using a booster seat when they can sit with their back against the seat back while their legs bend over the end of the seat. A seat belt fits properly when the lap belt lays across the upper thighs and the shoulder belt fits across the middle of the child’s shoulder and chest. This typically occurs when the child is 4’9” tall and between 8 and 12 years of age.
Back Seat
Have all children under age 13 sit in the back seat. If possible, place children in the middle of the back seat as this is safest.

Air Bag
Never seat a child in front of an air bag.
Additional Helpful Info
- If you are unsure if your car seat is installed correctly and would like to have it checked, contact your local fire department and ask for the car seat safety inspector. They will actually check your seat and make sure it is properly installed in your vehicle.
