09/14/2026
As kids grow, their car seat needs change. The safest seat is one that fits your child's age, height and weight and is installed correctly.
Here's a quick guide:
Rear-Facing: Keep children rear-facing as long as allowed by the car seat manufacturer (usually up to 40 lbs).
Forward-Facing: Once they outgrow rear-facing, transition to a forward-facing seat with a harness. (usually until the child is between 50 and 90 lbs. depending on the manufacturer of the seat)
Booster Seat: Use a booster until the vehicle's seat belt fits properly.
Seat Belt: Your child should be able to sit with his or her back flat against the vehicle seat. The child’s knees should bend over the vehicle seat edge. Your child’s feet should touch the floor. The lap portion of the vehicle seat belt should cross your child’s upper thigh area and the shoulder belt portion of the vehicle seat belt should cross your child’s collarbone area.
Remember, the back seat is the safest place for children under 13 years old.
Not sure if your child's car seat is installed correctly? Contact our Community Service Officers to set up a time to have it inspected.
For more information, visit our website: https://www.ankenyiowa.gov/321/Child-Passenger-Safety-Seats-Car-Seats