Studies at the University of Michigan proved that children, adolescents and adults are at risk.
University of Michigan Passenger Safety studies can be found at CPSBestPractice.com.
Puffy clothing can create enough slack to risk the child slipping out of the seat in a collision.
Children under 12 should ride in the back seat using a 5-point harness until 50-80 lbs.
Straps should emerge AT or ABOVE the child’s shoulders; chest clip LEVEL with armpits.
Harness straps should have no gaps; pinch at the shoulders to check for slack.
The more layers between a child and the harness the harder it is to fit the restraint to the child.
For smaller babies and tots, several car seat companies sell zip up “boots” designed especially for this purpose.
For Infants, bringing a heavier swaddle blanket to the car, securing your baby in the seat, and then tucking in the swaddle once in the seat, along with a warm beanie, can keep baby nice and toasty.
Or use a thin fleece one-piece outfit like Carter’s or Columbia fleece – make sure the fit is good so there isn’t excessive bulk.
For older kids, open the coat, apply the seatbelt, then zip the coat up – so there is close contact of the belt with his chest and shoulder.
Remove bulky coats before buckling in the child; drape coats or blankets around for warmth.
Swaddle infants in heavier blankets tucking in the blanket after buckling; add a warm beanie.
For older children remove coat, buckle in then put the coat on backwards tucking it in.
For additional resources please visit:
CPSBestPractice.com
CarSeat.org
Return to the Episode Guide >>
Board certified pediatrician Dr. JJ Levenstein, MD, FAAP Take parenting classes instructed by Dr. Levenstein online by visiting www.momassembly.com. To learn more about parents' concerns with kids go to her Facebook page at www.facebook.com/CallingDoctorJJ . Get more great recipes and crafts by visiting us on Pinterest at pinterest.com/homeandfamilytv and follow "Home & Family" on Twitter @homeandfamilytv and Facebook. Plus, check out our YouTube channel for backstage videos.
