Statistically speaking, if you’re currently using a car seat, you’re more likely than not making a mistake in doing so. It’s important for parents to be informed about these issues and correct them as soon as possible. Especially when it comes to child safety! Here are some car seat tips for parents to take note of:
1. Forward Facing Seat
Turning your toddler’s car seat from rear facing to forward facing too early on is one of the most common mistakes parents make. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that kids remain rear-facing to a minimum of two years old, regardless of height of weight.
2. Owner’s Manual
We’re all guilty of ripping open boxes of our new toys and products, and completely disregarding the paperwork that comes with it. When it comes to something as serious as a car seat though, reading the manual will tell you everything you need to know and how to install it correctly.
3. Expired Seat
Not only do car seats actually have expiration dates on them, but they can also be recalled. Check the back or bottom of the seat for a label stating the date of manufacture; there may be an expiration date as well but refer to the manual if not.
4. Accessories
Parents need to understand that any accessory that didn’t come with your car seat was not crash-tested with the seat. Therefore, it can’t be guaranteed to be safe and must not be used.
5. LATCH Usage
The LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tether for Children) system is in passenger vehicles from year 2002, and its purpose is to make it easier to install car seats properly. Parents must know that the LATCH and seat belt should not be used simultaneously, and LATCH can only be used in certain seats in your vehicle. Refer to your car’s manual to find out the LATCH rules.
6. Shopping Cart
Parents should NEVER put an infant carrier or car seat on top of a shopping cart. Babies can, and have on multiple occasions, toppled off the top of the cart or had the whole cart tip over. This has led to skull fractures and other severe injuries.
7. No Known History
Since baby and children’s products are outgrown a lot faster than usual products, they get passed down a lot from one parent to another. Parents should never buy a used car seat, or even accept a free hand-me-down if you can’t be completely sure of its history. Even if the outside of it looks perfect, you never know if it’s been in an accident or cared for properly enough to trust.
Written by Doodle Pants Team
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