subject: What Type Of Car Seat Do I Need? [print this page] There are many car seats that are on the market and as a new parent this can be quite overwhelming. Theres no doubt that you want to choose the best car seat for the optimum protection of your child, but how do you know what is correct when making this purchase.
There are many factors that are involved in choosing the right car seat for your child. As a parent, it is important to know that your child must fulfil a height and weight requirement before they move onto a different car seat.
New Born Car Seats
As soon as your baby girl or boy arrives, you must put them in a car seat when travelling in a vehicle. Therefore, before your bundle of joy has arrived, you will need to purchase a car seat. These car seats tend to look quite similar to that of a bassinet. They are termed as rearward facing car seats because they face towards the back seat.
Baby and Child Car Seats
As your child grows, buying a new car seat should be in the back of your mind. Normally around 9 to 12 months of age, the baby will move out of the rearward car seat and into a new one that faces forward. These car seats work for babies and children of up to 4 years old that are between the weights 9kg and 18 kg.
These car seats differ from the baby car seats since they are connected to the seat with a seat belt. The seat itself will have shoulder straps that go over the chest and meet with a split crotch strap between the legs, which holds the child in safely.
Child Booster Seats
Your child will continue to use a form of a car seat once his or her weight has exceeded 18 kg. These seats are commonly referred to as Boosters. Some children can begin using them when they have reached 14kg, until 26 kg. This booster car seat gives your child height so that he or she can use the normal car seat belt safely over their stomach and chest.
Tips for Parents
The rules of children using car seats changes frequently, so always check to err on the side of caution. Here are some tips that will help parents make the transition of using car seats easier:
* Always ask. If you are not sure about changing your childs car seat then dont be afraid to pose the questions that are on your mind.
* Premature babies do not have specific baby seat requirements so always check with the hospital before departure to see if the one you have is appropriate for your newborn. Also, many hospitals will not let you leave the hospital without a car seat.
* Car seats can be uncomfortable for a baby, so when you are travelling make sure that they are in the car seat for as minimal time as possible.
* Children should not be placed in a seat where there is an airbag as this can be dangerous.
* You should purchase a new car seat when your child grows out of the old one. Make sure that the harnesses are firm as this will help to protect your child. The car seat that you purchase should be specifically for your childs weight or height.
* Remember, Australian law requires that a child from birth to 7 years must be restrained in an appropriate car seat. This is a legal requirement in every state except the Northern Territory. If you are unsure of the road rules pertaining to child safety, contact your governing body for more information.
