• • • What is an Infant Car Seat?
    • What is a Convertible Car Seat?
    • When Should You Make the Transition?
    • Why Keep Your Child Rear-Facing Longer?

What is an Infant Car Seat?
An infant car seat is specifically designed for newborns and babies. These rear-facing seats are portable, often allowing you to easily click them in and out of a base installed in your vehicle. Parents often appreciate the convenience of infant car seats, especially since they can double as carriers or attach to strollers

In Canada, most infant car seats accommodate babies from 4 to 35 pounds (1.8 to 15.9 kg), with height limits typically ranging from 28 to 32 inches (71 to 81 cm). Once your baby exceeds either the weight or height limit, it’s time to transition to a convertible car seat.

What Is a Convertible Car Seat?
A convertible car seat grows with your child and can be used in both rear-facing and forward-facing positions. Unlike infant car seats, they are designed for long-term use, typically accommodating children from 5 pounds (2.3 kg) to 65 pounds (29.5 kg) or more.

Convertible car seats allow for extended rear-facing use, which is recommended by safety experts. Canadian guidelines encourage parents to keep their children rear-facing for as long as possible, beyond the limits of most infant seats.

1. Weight and Height Limits: Check the weight and height restrictions on your infant seat. When your child exceeds either limit, it’s time to switch.

• • Weight: Most infant car seats in Canada have a limit of 35 pounds (15.9 kg).
  • Height: Babies often outgrow the height limit before they reach the weight limit. If your baby’s head is within 1 inch (2.5 cm) of the top of the seat, they’ve outgrown it.

2. Head Position: If your baby’s head is less than 1 inch from the top of the seat, it’s a sign they’ve outgrown the infant seat, even if they haven’t reached the weight limit.

Why Keep Your Child Rear-Facing Longer?
In Canada, the law requires children to remain rear-facing until they are at least 1 year old and 22 pounds (10 kg). However, experts recommend keeping your child rear-facing as long as possible—ideally until they reach the maximum weight or height limit of their convertible car seat.

Rear-facing car seats provide better protection for your child’s head, neck, and spine in the event of a crash. For this reason, many parents opt to keep their children rear-facing until they are 2 or even 3 years old.

1. Choose a Convertible Car Seat that Fits Your Vehicle: Convertible car seats can be bulkier than infant seats, so make sure the seat you choose fits properly in your car. Some convertible seats allow for more legroom for rear-facing children, which can help extend the time they remain rear-facing.
2. Rear-Facing Installations: Always install the convertible car seat rear-facing until your child reaches the seat’s rear-facing height and weight limits. Convertible seats are designed to stay rear-facing longer than infant seats.
3. Check Your Provincial Regulations: While car seat laws in Canada are similar across provinces, there may be slight variations. Make sure you’re familiar with the regulations specific to your province.
4. Follow Manufacturer Guidelines: Read your car seat’s manual for proper installation and use. Each car seat has different specifications, so it's essential to know the details of your particular seat.

Final Thoughts
Transitioning from an infant car seat to a convertible car seat is an important step in your child’s journey toward greater independence. Knowing when to make the change and how to ensure your child remains safe is key to making the transition smooth and stress-free. Remember to keep your child rear-facing for as long as possible and choose a convertible seat that fits both your child and your vehicle.

If you’re unsure, consult a certified car seat technician to ensure your car seat is properly installed and complies with Canadian safety standards.

At West Coast Kids, we’re here to help with a wide range of high-quality car seats to fit your child’s needs. Your child’s safety is always our top priority!