For safety, it is very important that your child's car seat faces the rear until your child outgrows the height and weight requirement by the car seat manufacturer. You may choose to start your child in an infant-only car seat (shown here) when your child is a newborn. This type of car seat reclines, typically has a handle, and can be removed from its base. This type of car seat only faces to the rear. As soon as your child has outgrown the highest weight or height allowed by the infant car seat's manufacturer, switch to a convertible car seat or 3-in-1 car seat. Face it to the rear until your child reaches the height and weight requirement by the car seat manufacturer for a forward-facing seat. Secure the car seat in the back seat of your vehicle.
Current as of:
March 1, 2023
Author: Healthwise Staff Medical Review: Susan C. Kim MD - Pediatrics Kathleen Romito MD - Family Medicine John Pope MD - Pediatrics Heather Quinn MD - Family Medicine