booster seat question

[*DisMom*]

My 4 year old daughter is currently in a booster seat with a back to it? It's hard to explain, but the seatbelt gets stuck a lot through the top part where it is supposed to loop through ...i know this probably sounds confusing...my question is, do i need to keep the back part on her booster seat or do you think it will be safe to take it off (the back comes off and it becomes just a booster seat). Our drive to Disney, getting in and out of our car, will be much easier without the back, but safety is my #1. She is about 41 inches tall and weighs about 40-43 lbs. Thanks!!

 

[all4fun]

What is the brand name of the booster seat you're using (i.e.Graco, Evenflo, etc)? I'm just wondering if someone who has that booster might be able to give you more specific advice on how to make it work better for you.

HBB's provide about 70% more protection in a side impact than a backless booster does. They also generally help keep kids positioned correctly in the adult seatbelt better than a backless booster does. Here's an article that has more information about that. A 5pt seat is actually the safest option... Kids spine and hips don't fully ossify until 5-6yrs old and they are also more likely to stay seated properly behind the adult seatbelt 100% of the time when they're a bit older. For a longer car ride (when the child is more likely to fall asleep, especially), that is what I would personally prefer. Just some food for thought. There are some higher weight limit seats that are built to accomodate bigger kids and they don't all cost $300 either.

hth

 

[Matt'nMeg'sMom]

My kids are 8 and 5, and they're in 5 point harnesses (Britax Regent). I bought them for less than $75 each on Craigslist.

 

[dogodisney]

My 4 yr. old DGD has a booster seat with a back to it too. Hers can be leaned back which is nice for travelling. It helps to keep her head flopping forward.
I know it can be irritating to deal with the lap belt but it will be more comfortable for the ride.

My DGD alwys says that she loves her carseat.

 

[*DisMom*]

Thanks for your replies! I've decided the back will stay on!

 

[policycobb]

What is the brand name of the booster seat you're using (i.e.Graco, Evenflo, etc)? I'm just wondering if someone who has that booster might be able to give you more specific advice on how to make it work better for you.

HBB's provide about 70% more protection in a side impact than a backless booster does. They also generally help keep kids positioned correctly in the adult seatbelt better than a backless booster does. Here's an article that has more information about that. A 5pt seat is actually the safest option... Kids spine and hips don't fully ossify until 5-6yrs old and they are also more likely to stay seated properly behind the adult seatbelt 100% of the time when they're a bit older. For a longer car ride (when the child is more likely to fall asleep, especially), that is what I would personally prefer. Just some food for thought. There are some higher weight limit seats that are built to accomodate bigger kids and they don't all cost $300 either.

hth

Thanks for this info. I am been contemplating getting a backless booster for my very tall 3 year old but didn't know how safe it would be. You helped me make up my mind.