At what age should a child transition to a booster seat?

The appropriate age for a child to transition to a booster seat is generally around 4 years old, which aligns with the developmental needs and safety recommendations for young children. At this age, most children have outgrown their forward-facing car seat with a harness system, yet still require the added elevation that a booster seat provides for proper seat belt fit.

Using a booster seat is crucial for ensuring that adult seat belts fit correctly across a child's shoulder and lap. A booster seat raises the child so that the seat belt can securely and comfortably position itself across their body, thereby maximizing safety in the event of a collision. Children at age 4 are typically more developed and can sit appropriately in the booster seat without needing further restraints.

Although some children may still use a harness seat until they reach the weight or height limits set by the manufacturer, the transition to a booster seat is a common recommendation from safety experts, including the American Academy of Pediatrics. This transition helps prevent injuries and promotes safe travel practices as children grow.