When Can A Child Stop Using A Booster Seat?
As your child grows, you may wonder when it’s safe for them to stop using a booster seat. Booster seats are designed to ensure proper seat belt fit for children who have outgrown their car seat but are still too small to use an adult seat belt safely. In this article, we’ll tackle the common question parents ask: “at what age can a child stop using a booster seat?”
Understanding Booster Seats
Booster seats are designed to elevate your child so that the seat belt fits them properly. Without a booster seat, a seat belt can ride too high on your child’s abdomen and neck, leaving them vulnerable to injury in a crash. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), booster seats are recommended for children until they are at least 4 feet 9 inches tall and are between 8 and 12 years old.
Why Age Isn’t The Only Factor
While age is a factor when determining if your child is ready to ditch the booster seat, it’s not the only thing you should consider. Other factors that come into play are your child’s weight, height, and maturity level. Typically, children can safely ride without a booster seat once they weigh 80 to 100 pounds and can sit with their back flat against the vehicle seat and their feet touching the floor without slouching.
What The Law Says
Booster seat laws vary by state, so it’s important to check the laws in your state to ensure you’re following the correct regulations. In some states, like California, a child must be at least 8 years old or 4 feet 9 inches tall to stop using a booster seat. Other states, like Illinois, require booster seats for children under age 8 or under 4 feet 9 inches tall. Check with local law enforcement or your state’s department of motor vehicles for specific guidelines.
When In Doubt, Keep The Booster Seat
When it comes to your child’s safety, it’s better to err on the side of caution. Even if your child meets the age and weight requirements to stop using a booster seat, it’s important to consider whether they can sit properly in the car without a booster. If in doubt, keep the booster seat until you’re sure your child is ready to graduate to the regular seat belt.
