- Age under 1 year, even if over 20 lbs: rear-facing car seat in the back seat (if car has a back seat)
- Ages 1-3: forward-facing toddler car seat in the back seat
- Ages 4-8 and less than 5 feet tall: booster car seat in the back seat
- Kids over 9 or over 5 feet tall: regular seat belt. The back seat is strongly recommended until the child turns 12.
- Everyone else: regular seat belt in front or back.
Although it is not yet the law in Tennessee, recent studies indicate that keeping 1-year-olds rear-facing until their 2nd birthday is probably safer than turning them around at age 1. Ask us about the most up-to-date information about positioning your 1-year-old safely in the car.
Never put an infant or child's care seat in the front seat where an air bag is located. Children have died when the air bag struck the car seat.
Set a good example for your children and always wear your seat belt too! If parents don't buckle up, children think that seat belts are "just for babies."
Remember, it is now Tennessee law that all young people under 17 wear a seat belt or car seat, no matter where they are in the car. All people in the front seat must wear a seat belt, regardless of age.
What about a preemie/special needs child?
Many parents of very small preemies wonder if a regular car seat is safe for their baby. Other parents of children with special needs may have difficulty getting their child into a regular car seat or booster seat.
However, there are safe alternatives in these cases. See the American Academy of Pediatrics' special seat shopping guide for more information. (Adobe PDF format)
Last updated 07/13/09
