recommendations provided by the National Child Passenger Safety Certification Program (NHTSA).
Select the child restraint that is right for the child's weight, height, physical development and behavioral needs. Select a child restraint with multiple harness positions and a short crotch strap to offer many options for a small but rapidly growing infant.
Children grow quickly, so be sure to check your child restraint regularly for the proper fit.
Checklist for Proper Fit for your Child:
- Appropriate for weight and height of the child according to child restraint instructions
- Infant's back and bottom are flat in the child restraint
- Harness straps on rear-facing seats are at or below the shoulders
- Harness straps on forward-facing seats are at or above the shoulders
- Harness is snug (see below)
- Harness chest clip at the armpit level
- Crotch strap position that fits best
Did you Test your Child's Harness?
- The Pinch Test
- At your child's shoulder, try to pinch the webbing up and down. Your fingers should slide off.
Proper Fit for your Vehicle:
- Not every child restraint will fit into every vehicle
- Consider the vehicle seat type and size (contoured, bench, captain, etc.)
- Many retail outlets will allow parents to try out a child restraint in their vehicle in the store parking lot
Car Seat Selection: Ease of Use