When it comes to installing a car seat, there’s definitely a lot to know. Here we try to give you some of the basics, according to the dmv.org.

Rear-Facing Until 1 Year Minimum

The first thing you need to be aware of is that rear-facing, infant-only seats are required for all kids up to 12 months old.

That said, SaferCar.gov recommends keeping your child in a rear-facing seat until they are three years old, unless the child outgrows the height or weight recommendations for the car seat.

Convertible seats are a bit different in that they are created to be adjustable as your child grows. This a money saver, allowing you to buy one car seat rather than several different one.

It’s important to note that even in a convertible car seat, you should still have your child sit facing the back as long as possible.

Tips to buckle in your child safely no matter what type of seat you have from dmv.org:

1. Have your child sit with his or her back and bottom flat against the car seat.
2. Place the harness straps below your child’s shoulders. The harness straps should be flat, not twisted.
3. Buckle the harness and the chest-clip. Tighten the harness until snug. The harness is snug when you cannot pinch any extra material on the child’s shoulders.
4. Always buckle your child in the seat first before placing coats or blankets over the harness.
5. Place the chest-clip at your child’s armpit level.

Four and Up

What happens when your child hits age four? From age four to seven years old your child will still be sitting in a car seat but that seat will be facing forward from the back seat. Most of the time these particular seats are held in place with a seatbelt slipped through a hole in the back.

The DMV reminds you to make sure there’s less than an inch of movement in any direction.

Since 2002, vehicles have been manufactured with what’s called the LATCH system. LATCH  stands for Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children. Safecar.gov says these systems make car seat installation a lot easier as they offer you a way to directly attach your child’s car seat to your car.

At Great Plains Auto Body, we take your family’s safety seriously. Twice a year, in October and February, we offer car seat safety checks to help you ensure the safety of your little ones.

Great Plains Auto Body, 402.334.7100.