One of the most important responsibilities of parents is keeping their kids safe. Choosing a car seat falls under this great responsibility. Babies and toddlers must be secured in car seats, and booster seats allow older kids to be safely restrained in the car, even when they outgrow the more cumbersome toddler seats. Graco offers parents several options when it is time to choose a booster seat, all of which meet minimum safety standards.
Function
Booster seats elevate children who are still too small to utilize an adult-sized seat belt appropriately. Because a seat belt must be worn low across the hips or thighs and tight across the chest to work properly in the event of an accident, a booster seat is necessary to help position the belt correctly on child's smaller frame.
Types
Graco manufactures all three types of booster seats--convertible, high-back and backless. A convertible booster uses a harness to restrain children up to a certain weight before converting to a tall, belt-positioning booster seat. A high-back booster functions in exactly the same way, except it does not also incorporate a harness for smaller kids. This type of booster seat is necessary if your car does not have headrests. A backless booster can be used in cars with headrests or high seat backs.
Fit
Graco booster seats have various height and weight requirements, so check the manufacturer's directions before selecting a model for your child. In general, a child must be at least four years old and weigh at least 40 pounds in order to safely use a booster seat. All three Graco booster seat styles can be used for children up to 100 pounds.
Safety Features
Convertible and high-back boosters offer the most safety features, including energy-absorbing foam to help mitigate the force of an impact. Adjustable headrests, side wings and Lower Anchor and Tethers for Children (LATCH) installation are all features that protect your child.
Considerations
Booster seats must be used with a lap and shoulder belt, so select a different seat or position if the only belt available is a lap belt. Children should remain some sort of car seat until they are at least 57 inches tall, and children under 40 pounds are safest in a forward-facing car seat with a five-point harness. Because a booster seat is less restrictive, you may need to remind your children to remain upright and to keep the seat belt in the correct position.
