It can seem like the proper installation of an infant car seat should be followed by a cap and gown ceremony. But be careful about graduating your little one to a front-facing car seat too early. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, toddlers who ride rear-facing in a car seat are more than five times safer than those who ride in forward-facing car seats. Here are a few guidelines to keep in mind.

1. Infants should always ride rear-facing until they're at least 1 year old and weigh at least 20 pounds.

2. If your baby slouches in his car seat, pad around (never under or behind) him with rolled-up blankets. Avoid using any sort of car safety seat insert unless it came with the seat or was made by the same manufacturer.

3. Never place a rear-facing car safety seat in the front seat of a vehicle that has an active front passenger air bag.

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