The Other New AAP Car Safety Guideline: Booster Seats

The big headline from yesterday’s AAP policy announcement was about toddlers staying rear-facing in their car seats until age 2, or until they reach the height or weight limits of their car seat for rear-facing use.

But the new policy also touched on the use of booster seats. Once a child has reached the height or weight limit of their forward-facing seat, they can transition to a booster. According to the policy, most children will need a booster seat until they have reached 4 feet 9 inches tall, and are between 8 and 12 years old.
Plus: Are You Making One of These Car Seat Mistakes?

Many parents are questioning how to make that work. First of all, booster can make car-pooling tough, and many big kids will fight sitting in one, perceiving it as babyish. But getting rid of the booster prematurely can lead to serious injury in an accident. A seat belt that doesn’t fit properly can pierce internal organs, damage the spinal cord, or, if the shoulder strap is improperly fitted, seriously injure your child’s head.
Plus: Why Your Child Needs a Booster Seat

Does your big kid ride in a booster?