Car seat options include rear facing, front facing, convertible, and booster seats. It is recommended that infants ride in a rear facing car seat until they are 2 years old or 35 pounds, whichever comes first. Rear facing car seats are designed to support the neck, back and head and most come with an insert to keep the infant’s head stable and secure while riding. Most of these car seats have a base that stays in the car and a detachable seat for convenience. A front facing car seat is needed when the child becomes a toddler and will last until approximately 6 years old or up to 65 pounds. A booster seat is recommended from 5 or 6 years old until age 8.

A convertible car seat is a cost effective way to get your child from infancy to age 6 because it can be used as a rear facing seat at first and then converts to a front facing seat. You only need to purchase one car seat instead of two different ones in the same amount of time. The seat adjusts as your child grows via inserts, padding and a buckle system. Convertible car seats can have a 3, 4, or 5 point harness system to keep your child safely in the seat. The car seat itself is secured in place using a LATCH system. LATCH refers to Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children and all car seats must have it in order to comply with safety regulations.

The differences in convertible car seats are found in price, height and weight limits, safety features, and conveniences. The graco my ride 65 convertible car seat is inexpensive and has a weight limit of 65 pounds. The height limit is 50 inches and this seat has a 5 point harness system. Side impact protection meets US safety standards and energy absorbing foam keeps most of the force of an impact away from the child. The seat cover is available in many patterns and colors and is machine washable. This model also has two cup holders that can be removed and placed in the dishwasher.