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AAP Recomendations for Toddler Car Seat Safety

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommendations for toddler car seat safety are crucial to follow when strapping your toddler into his car seat. This is the best way to keep him safe while driving and it is the law for car seat manufacturers to follow these specifications and in many cases it is law for parents to follow them. So, rather than risk getting ticketed or risk your child's health, follow the AAP recommendations for toddler car seat safety.

  1. Weight

    • Whether you are using a convertible car seat or a booster seat, every manufacturer has guidelines to meet regarding the weight of the toddler that will be sitting in it. Check these weight guidelines before purchasing a car seat for your toddler.

    Shoulder Strap

    • Make sure that your toddler has the strap over her shoulder if you're using a booster seat. A convertible car seat may have straps attached to go over both shoulders.

    Directions

    • Read the installation directions carefully. Do not assume that you can do it on your own. When in doubt, take the seat to a local firehouse or police station and they will check to make sure the seat is properly installed.

    Size

    • If your toddler is on the smaller side and weighs less than 20 pounds, then he must remain in a rear-facing position in the car.

    Tightness

    • A toddler safety seat is not going to do much good if it is too loose. You should be able to easily insert two of your fingers under the chest strap.

    Belt

    • The seat belt must loop through the top of the car seat or booster seat. This is the only way that it will be effective in the case of an accident.

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