5 Ways to Use and Benefits of Baby Car Seats

Car seat for babies is a seat specifically designed for infants and children with the purpose of protecting them while traveling in a car. Another benefit is to minimize the risk of accidents and impacts on the baby during sudden braking. However, many parents are still unaware of the benefits and how to use a car seat for babies, even though this is very important for the safety of the little one. So, for friends who have babies, it's a must to read this first before using a car seat.
Know the Benefits of Car Seat for Babies
As a parent, you don't need to worry anymore, friends. Car seats are specially designed for babies, starting from soft materials and strap attachments that won't hurt the baby. The models and designs are varied so you can easily choose according to your preference.
Car seats can protect babies from accidents or threats to their safety. Do not hold the baby on the seat or in the front seat as it is very risky for the child's body. In the event of sudden braking, using a car seat for babies is very appropriate to prevent the baby from falling, because car seats are already equipped with seat belts that hold the baby's body in place, thus avoiding the risk of falling.
Guide to Using a Baby Car Seat
1. Check the Baby's Weight
Do not force it if the car seat feels tight when used, friends, that means the car seat is too small. Based on their type, car seats are divided into three categories;
- Infant car seat, for babies aged 0-1 year and weighing 10 kg designed to be able to rotate 45 degrees.
- Toddler car seat , for children aged 1-4 years, weighing 10 kg-20 kg.
- Young children car seat, for children aged 4-8, and weighing more than 20kg.
2. Place it Behind the Seat
Placing the car seat behind the seat can reduce the child’s risk of death in an accident by up to 75%. With the position behind the neck, the child's head and spine will be maximally protected during impacts. Why not in the front seat? Because the child will have difficulty breathing when the airbag deploys.
3. Install in the Correct Position
Make sure when installing the car seat it is secure and does not shift more than 1 inch. Fasten the belt correctly until it clicks when locked and always check the belt at least every 2 weeks. Always fix the car seat if it shifts forward or sideways.
4. Belt Fits the Child's Body
Do not fasten the belt too tightly on the child, as it will make it difficult for them to breathe. Just tighten the belt according to the child's body with a little looseness of one finger's width. Do not let it be too loose as it will not serve its purpose as a safety measure.
5. Angle of the Seat
According to the guidelines from the American Academy of Pediatrics, the ideal angle for a car seat for babies is 45 degrees. Meanwhile, for older babies or toddlers, an angle of 35 degrees is sufficient.
So, how about friends, do you understand how to install a car seat for your car? Never install a car seat carelessly as it can be fatal if any part is not installed correctly. To be more confident, you can read the user manual before installing the car seat friends.
Read also: Tips for Long-Distance Driving with Children