Overview

There are four main sequential steps in child restraint best practice: rear-facing harnessed restraint, forward-facing harnessed restraint, booster seat with a lap-and-shoulder belt restraint, and seat belts. Matching the appropriate restraint mode with the child depends on their physical size and maturity level. Each successive step offers less occupant protection than the previous mode, so caregivers should delay moving to the next level as long as possible.

9-15-21