Does Your Child Need a Booster Car Seat?

For children too small for your car's regular seat belt or too big for toddler/child car seats the booster car seat is the answer. You can find various types of booster car seats to accommodate your needs.

Some convertible car seats can be changed to booster car seats when your child gets older. You start out using the five-point harness to secure your child, and then convert to use the vehicle’s belts. When your child reaches thirty pounds, these booster car seats provide height so a standard seat belt and shoulder belt fits across them safely. Some also have built-in guides that position the belts correctly.

Other kinds of booster car seats do not have a harness. They are rated for children starting at thirty pounds and up to eighty pounds. These seats raise your child up and provide for safe positioning of the seat belt. Some of these booster car seats will support a child up to one hundred pounds.

A number of companies make booster car seats. Read the manufacturers directions to determine proper weight/height guidelines and installation. Many on-line sellers provide guides for choosing the right one.

Booster car seats come in many print, patterns, styles and colors to fit your car, your style, or your child's preference. They also come in a variety different materials, from denim to leather, to cotton, and fabric blends. Many also come with compartments or cup holders on the sides for kids to put a drink or favorite items.

For children three to eight, or occasionally older, booster car seats are a great way for them to ride safely in a vehicle. Remember, with or without a booster car seat, children should ride in the back seat, never the front.

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