Forward Facing Child Passenger Safety Seat

Toddlers older than 1 year of age AND who weigh more than 20 pounds.

A child older than 1 year of age AND more than 20 pounds are able to ride in a forward facing or convertible car seat.  An infant only seat cannot be used forward facing.

It is highly recommended that toddlers remain rear facing as long as possible.  Follow the car seat manufacturer's guidelines for weight limits.

Toddlers should be secured in their child passenger seat everytime, all the time.  They should not be placed in front of an active airbag.

Key Points to Remember:

1)    Always follow the car seat manufacturer and automobile manufacturer guidelines for proper installation and positioning.

2)  The safest place for all children is in the backseat and not in front of an active airbag.

3)  Harness straps should be at or above the child's shoulders when using forward facing seats.

4)  Harness straps should lay flat and be snug against the child.

5)  The retainer clip should be at the armpit level of the toddler.

6)  Children are best protected in a harness until they reach the upper weight limit of the child safety seat.

7)  ALWAYS make sure that the child passenger safety seat is secured properly in the vehicle with either the lower anchors and tethers for children (LATCH) system or seat belt. 

8)  The seat should not move more than one inch side to side or front to back from the seat belt path. 

9)  Assure the correct belt path is used if you are changing the seat from rear facing to forward facing.  Check user manuals for details.

10) Use the top tether, if capable in your vehicle, even if you use the seat belts to secure the child seat into the vehicle.  Tethers limit the movement of the entire seat considerably protecting your child's head and neck much more effectively.