Forward Facing Restrictions???

Here's a great website with information on rear-facing seats and safety...
http://www.cpsafety.com/articles/stayrearfacing.aspx

It's 20lbs AND 1 year.

I did a quick search and found this website...

http://www.txdps.state.tx.us/director_staff/public_inform...

K.

I agree just make sure they are at least one. Keep in mind if they are still under weight most pedis will suggest keeping them rearfacing till they get closer to the weight mark. The 1 year is very important, you want to make sure that their neck muscles are strong enough.

K.,

The requirements are 20 pounds or 1 year old, which ever comes last.

J.

I would think you can visit your local Fire Station being that they do free car seat inspections. I would think they would know the laws.

A. Lynn

I know that most, if not all, car seats come with a sticker on the side, and booklet, that mention the height and weight restrictions for the seat(s).
However, something I didn't know, until talking to my DR, is that you're not supposed to put your child into a front-facing seat until they are one.

Yes, it is 20 lbs AND 1 year before you can face forward.

I am sure that you have your share of answers, but just wanted to say KUDOS to you moms out there who stated 20 pounds AND one year. That is the rule!!!!! My career as a trauma RN at Children's MEdical Center taught me that these guidelines are not just a suggested, that they should be followed to a tee. Also, while you are installing that new car seat, make sure that it is done correctly by visiting a car seat check station. Almost 90% of all car seats are installed incorrectly. And once you have that taken care of, there is the subject of how tight the restraint should be on your child... that one is easy- there should be no more than 2 finger widths space between your child's restraint system and their body, and the chest piece should be at nipple height, no lower. (ok, sorry, I am just a little passionate about car seat safety!!!)) :-)
T.

It's just what Allison said, it's 20lbs AND 1 year! bottom line! no exceptions!

www.boosterseat.gov has information regarding child seats and boosters.

The minimum requirements are 20 pounds and 1 year. Your carseat may be designed to support rear-facing for longer, though. The Britax Boulevard, for example, will support rear-facing to 35 pounds or until the child hits the max height restriction for the seat (which is 49 inches or until the top of the ears hit the top of the seat or until the child hits the maximum harness position).

Rear facing is safest, so I'd keep your kids rear facing as long as possible. It is ok if their legs are crossing...that will not impact their safety in a crash.

http://cpsafety.com/articles/stayrearfacing.aspx

I know that you have to be 20 pounds AND at least one year of age but not sure about the height restrictions I believe the fire dept can point you to the right direction.

Good Luck!