What age/weight is appropriate for children to switch to a booster seat?

4 Comments

1. Imaka says:

   February 28, 2010 at 11:13 pm

   Here are some guidelines to help determine when a child should move from a safety seat to a belt positioning booster seat or a seat belt alone.

   - The child has outgrown a convertible child safety seat. (when they reach 40 pounds or 40 inches in height.
   - A child who weighs between 40-80 pounds, or a child who is between the ages of 4-8 years and at least 35 inches tall should be restrained in a belt positioning booster seat.
   - A child who can’t sit with their back against the vehicle seat back cushion or who can’t sit with their knees over the vehicle seat edge without slouching. A belt- positioning booster is recommended.
   - It is always safest to keep your child in a forward-facing child safety seat with a full harness as long as the child fits the seat. Some seat manufacturers are increasing the maximum weight of the harness. Be sure to read the instruction manual for the seat for height and weight specifications.
   - If your child is under 4 years old but is too tall for a child safety seat, it would be safer to purchase a seat with a higher backrest. Most children under 4 years of age lack the maturity to stay in a belt- positioning booster.

   I hope this helps.
2. fukuoka says:

   February 28, 2010 at 11:13 pm

   at around age 5-6 which is around 50-60 pounds.
3. Shredpez says:

   February 28, 2010 at 11:13 pm

   when they’re 40lbs.
4. Ironhand says:

   February 28, 2010 at 11:13 pm

   All states vary, and some cities have additional ordinances.
   Best to check with your state’s D.M.V.