Types of Child Restraint Systems

There are three main types of child restraint systems: rear-facing, forward-facing, and booster child restraint systems.

They are classified according to the child's age, height, and weight.

Rear-Facing Child Restraint System

A rear-facing child restraint system supports the child's back. The harness holds the child in place, and in the event of an accident, it distributes the crash forces across the child restraint and reduces the load on the fragile neck and spinal cord.

All children under the age of one year should always ride in a rear-facing child restraint system. Various types of rear-facing child restraint systems are available. Infant-only child restraint systems may only be used rear-facing. Convertible and 3-in-1 child restraint systems usually have higher height and weight limits for the rear-facing position, which allows the child to remain rear-facing for a longer period of time.

Continue to use the rear-facing child restraint system until the child meets the height and weight limits allowed by the child restraint system manufacturer.

Forward-Facing Child Restraint System

A forward-facing child restraint system restrains the child's body with a harness. Keep children in a forward-facing child restraint system with a harness until they reach the maximum height or weight limit allowed by the child restraint system manufacturer.

Once your child outgrows the forward-facing child restraint system, your child is ready for a booster.

Child Seats

A booster is a child restraint system designed to improve the fit of the vehicle's seat belt system. The booster positions the seat belt so that it fits properly over the stronger parts of your child's body. Keep your children in a booster seat until they are large enough to wear the seat belt properly.

For the seat belt to fit properly, the lap belt should lie snugly across the upper thighs, not the abdomen. The shoulder belt should lie snugly over the shoulder and chest, not across the neck or face. Children under 13 years old should always be properly secured to minimize the risk of injury in the event of a crash, sudden stop, or sudden maneuver.