Combination seats become Boosters? So then do you ever get a Booster?

[theMama]

I am new to the world of carseats, so I have a silly question regarding Combination seats.

If you move your child into a Combination seat after he/she outgrows the Convertible seat, do you ever need to purchase a Booster seat since the Combination seat becomes a Booster?

I'm trying to map out what's the best way to purchase carseats, and I'm confused. Thanks for your help.

Dette
http://lilypie.com/baby1/050129/1/15/3/-6/.png[/img][/url]

[Joolsplus2]

Yeah, you do. Those combination seats that become a booster are really too short and shallow to comfortably get a kid to the size where they fit the adult seatbelt (age 8-12, about 80 pounds, and at least 4'9").

There are 2 "carseat paths" you can take:

Buy a Marathon now, which will last till age 5 or 6, then get a backless booster from Walmart ($15).(Or a highback booster, there are a huge variety to choose from, I'm just giving you the most basic that's acceptable :) )

Or, get a smaller convertible now (Roundabout, ComfortSport, Evenflo Triumph), then get a combination seat with taller top slots (Evenflo Chase, Graco Ultra Cargo), then get a backless booster.

The Marathon has the added benefit of being good for a child who might hit 40 pounds before they are mature enough for a booster (at least age 4 or 5), but if you and dh are thinnish and of average height, you should not have that dilemma).

If your baby's head right now is within one inch of the top of the infant seat, then it's time for a convertible to keep him rearfacing much longer, then forward facing till he's 3-4 for some seats, 5-6 for the Marathon).

Oh, I didn't mention the Alpha Omega Elite...um, it's ok as a convertible and ok as a booster, but you will definitely need another booster later (and for the money, I personally don't feel the quality is there...some folks love them, but they just aren't my personal fave)

Hope that helps...ask all the questions you need to to get this all figured out, ok?

:)


Julie CPS Tech and mom to 2 in seats
http://www.cpsafety.com/articles/RFAlbum/SarahMA.aspx

[theMama]

Thanks Julie for the helpful information! That's exactly what I wanted to know. :)

Dette
http://lilypie.com/baby1/050129/1/15/3/-6/.png[/img][/url]