baby car seat norani baby

Car Seat Safety: Everything You Need to Know

Getting your child safely strapped into their car seat is absolutely vital. There’s a different rule for every age, weight and height, and it can certainly feel overwhelming to a new parent. But don’t sweat it, we’re going to break down car seat safety for you and make it super easy to follow for every age and weight. 


NEWBORNS:

Picking the right car seat for your newborn can be stressful. A great place to start is with the consumer ratings list of safest car seats. Pick a car seat that’s right for your child’s size, right for your car and right for your budget. Once you have your car seat picked out, it’s time to get it installed (we always recommend following the instructions manual for this one). Here’s a helpful checklist for newborn car seat safety:

  • Install the car seat in the backseat, with the car seat being rear facing. 
  • Harness straps should be at or below the babies shoulders
  • Tighten the 5-point harness and make sure your child isn’t wearing any bulky jackets or suits. 
  • Once you have the harness tightened, you shouldn’t be able to pitch the strap. (See video below for more info on this step)
  • Chest clip should be aligned with babies armpits. 

TODDLERS: 

Once your child reaches 40 lbs + you can get them into a toddler car seat (if you’ve been using an infant car seat until now, or adjust your current one if it’s a ‘3 in 1’ or convertible car seat) and move the car seat to the forward facing position. The AAP used to recommend that children remain rear facing until age 2, but now that recommendation is based on weight, not age. Your child will remain in a 5-point harness forward-facing car seat until they reach 65 lbs. Here is the helpful checklist for toddlers: 

  • Toddlers should remain in a 5-point harness car seat, even if their seat is now forward facing. 
  • Harness straps should be at or below the toddler’s shoulders
  • Once you have the harness tightened, you shouldn’t be able to pitch the strap. (See video below for more info on this step)
  • You know your child is getting too tall for his forward-facing car seat when the top of his ears reach the top of the seat.

BIG KID: 

Once your child is over 65 lbs, you can transition them to a booster car seat. The AAP recommends that when children exceed 65 lbs, they should use a belt-positioning booster seat until the vehicle’s lap and shoulder seat belt fits properly. This is often when they have reached at least 4 feet 9 inches in height and are 8 to 12 years old. Here is the helpful checklist for big kids car seat safety: 

  • Booster seats do not need to be installed. And you don’t need to worry about a tight fit. Your child’s weight on the booster seat holds it in place.
  • Use the booster seat in the back seat.

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What Makes the Snugababe Sleep Pod Different?

The Norani Baby Snugababe Swaddle Sleep Pod features unique arm inserts, a silent velcro and a zipper for easy nighttime diaper changes. Our pods are made from 95% Organic Cotton, 5% Spandex, providing soft breathable fabric with a hint of stretch to make swaddling a breeze. The clever zipper design enables easy diaper changes without disturbing your sleeping baby, promoting longer and more restful sleep for both baby and parents. With its thoughtful design and attention to detail, the Norani Baby Snugababe Sleep Pod is a must-have for parents seeking a comfortable and secure sleep environment for their little ones.

Why is Swaddling So Important?

Swaddling is super important because it makes babies feel safe and cozy, just like they were in mommy's tummy. It helps them sleep better by preventing startle reflex and keeps them warm without overheating. Swaddling is like giving them a gentle hug that calms and comforts them. But remember, make sure to swaddle correctly, leaving room for their little legs and hips to move freely.

Sleep Experts Love Us!

We are so excited that Cara Dumaplin from Taking Cara Babies, an expert sleep trainer, has recommended our Snugababe Swaddle Sleep Pod to new parents looking to promote healthy sleep patterns in their infants. Sleep trainers are experts in the field of infant sleep and can offer valuable advice and guidance to parents struggling with sleep issues. They can also recommend products, like our swaddles, that have been proven to be effective at helping babies sleep more soundly, especially if you have a notorious baby Houdini.