Most children are not ready for a seat belt alone until they are 10 to 12 years old!
Booster vs. Harness
“Harness” refers to the 5-point system of straps in rear facing and some front facing seats
“Booster” is a seat that allows a vehicle’s seat belt to fit a child properly
Moving from harness to booster
A lap-only belt does not provide necessary protection, and should be avoided unless installing a harnessed (rear- or front-facing) seat
A booster seat can have a high back or be backless (start with high back)
Harness until your car seat’s height or weight limit (purchase a new seat to harness longer if necessary)
Move to a booster no sooner than age 5—start booster training around age 5-7
A good seat belt fit with a booster includes child’s back against the vehicle (if backless booster) or booster seat (if high back)
Whether using a booster or seat belt alone, check for proper belt fit:
Child must be able to stay in position for the entire trip
Child’s knees should bend at edge of seat
Shoulder portion of belt must be between shoulder and neck
Lap portion of belt should be low on hips, touching thighs
Without a booster, a proper belt fit should also include:
Child’s feet must touch the floor
Child must be at least 4’9”
Children are usually ready to skip the booster around puberty, age 10-12