Learn AAP & NHTSA Guidelines for How to Ride
All Children Start Riding Rear-Facing
The AAP recommends that infants and toddlers ride rear-facing as long as possible, until they reach the maximum height or weight allowed by their car seat. Graco offers car seats that support rear-facing up to 50 lb.
When to Switch to Forward-Facing
Once children outgrow the rear-facing weight or height limit, the AAP recommends using a forward-facing car seat with a harness until they reach the highest weight or height allowed by their car seat. Graco offers harness weight ratings up to 65 lb.
When to Use a Belt-Positioning Booster
Once children outgrow their forward-facing harness, the AAP recommends a belt-positioning booster until the seat belt fits properly, with the shoulder belt across the chest and lap belt low on the hips, and they can sit correctly for the entire ride—typically at 4'9" tall and ages 8–12.
Graco supports the American Academy of Pediatrics and National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s Car Seat Guidelines. Examine these guidelines to help determine which type of car seat your child should be using.