Car seats for children: How to choose?

Car seats for children: How to choose?


Baby is coming ... The first step in the car seat is the shell. Baby will be there for nearly twelve months (unless you quickly go in a 3-in-1 seat).

The important thing to know is that not all shells have the same weight limit. Unless of course mom wants to use the shell for weight training, it's best to avoid massive shells that accommodate babies up to 30 pounds.
Safety first
Did you know that one in two children (51.3%) is not safe in the car, that is to say that their seat is not used correctly?
A seat that meets safety standards
The rule of thumb is to buy a seat with the seal of Transport Canada. It is illegal to use a test bench purchased outside of Canada because safety standards are not the same elsewhere. Since this is a purchase that will last you for years to come, it is important to choose it wisely; if you find any flaws in it, you will have to live with it for a long time and every moment you strap your baby in the car will become torment.
How to properly tie up baby
To find out if your child is properly secured and if the seat is properly adapted, refer to the SAAQ website which has published a leaflet entitled Attach it to life (PDF). This link will open in a new window. which describes all the stages at each age.
3-in-1 model? 2 in 1?
Phase 1 corresponds to the period when the seat will be placed facing the rear of the vehicle. The child is always safer in the rear-facing seat as long as they stay within the seat's weight and size limits. Phase 2 means that the seat is installed facing forward (usually when baby is walking). Finally, phase 3 refers to the booster seat (around 4 years old).
What is the most beneficial? In fact, it depends on your concrete needs and your budget. Sometimes it is cheaper to buy a 2-in-1 convertible bench and a booster seat afterwards. You have to do the calculation according to your criteria. Finally, try them out in store, paying special attention to the anchoring system if you don't want to struggle with the straps and tire yourself out every time you drive.
In conclusion
Regardless of your choice of bench, it is essential that you follow the manufacturer's recommendations for weight and how to properly secure it. Do not hesitate to have your child's car seat checked by a qualified person (some car dealers, garages and police stations offer this service) and test your knowledge, This link will open in a new window.!