A safety seat for your child is crucial to her safety in any vehicle. Choosing the safest restraint system for your child provides her more security in case of an accident. Each time you move to a less restrictive car seat situation, your child's safety may decrease. Rushing your toddler into a booster seat before she is ready may increase the risk of serious injury in a car accident. Part of selecting a booster seat is choosing one that will work for your child's size.
Step 1
Measure your toddler's height and weight. Purchase a booster seat that fits your child's size. Never place your child in a booster seat if she hasn't reached the minimum height and weight requirements.
Step 2
Inspect the car in which you will place the booster seat. Choose a high-back booster seat if your vehicle does not have built-in headrests. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration warns that a backless booster seat should only be used in a vehicle with built-in headrests.
Step 3
Observe your toddler's behavior in the car. If your child has difficulty sitting still, consider a combination seat, which has a five-point harness and can also be used as a booster seat with the car's seat belt. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends keeping your child in a harness until at least 4 years old.
Step 4
Read the package information to determine the weight limit for the 5-point harness if you choose a combination booster seat. Choose a higher weight limit for the safest riding position for your toddler.
Step 5
Ask to try out the floor model in your vehicle with your toddler before making the purchase. Install the booster seat and secure your toddler with either the seat's five-point harness or the car's seat belt. Make sure the lap belt falls across the child's upper thigh and the shoulder belt is snug through the middle of his shoulder.
Step 6
Press your hand onto the seat of the booster chair to assess the comfort level. Look for a cushioned booster seat for the most comfortable ride.
Step 7
Feel the difference in the fabrics. Choose a booster seat with washable covers so you are able to keep them clean.
Step 8
Purchase the booster seat that best fits your car and toddler.
