Blog Archive

Target is running its Car Seat Trade-In Program from April 27 through May 10, allowing families to trade in expired or outgrown car seats in exchange for a 20% off coupon. The coupon can be used toward the purchase of a new car seat, car seat base, travel system, stroller, or select baby home gear.

This is a great opportunity to ensure your child's car seat is not only the right size but also safe and up-to-date. Here's how to know if it's time to upgrade:

🚫 Never Use a Secondhand Car Seat Unless You Know Its Full History

• Check for Prior Accidents: A car seat that has been in a crash-even if unoccupied-may have hidden structural damage that compromises its safety.

• Check Expiration Dates: Car seats have expiration dates (usually 6-10 years from the manufacture date), which are typically listed on the label or molded into the plastic.

• Watch for Recalls: Register your car seat with the manufacturer to receive important recall information.

• Beware of Counterfeit Car Seats: Unfortunately, counterfeit car seats are increasingly common online. They may look legitimate but fail to meet federal safety standards. To avoid these, always:

  • Buy from reputable retailers.

  • Verify the seat has a National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) label or certification sticker.

  • Be cautious of unusually low prices or listings from unfamiliar brands.
     

👶 For Newborns and Infants (Birth-12 Months)

• Use a Rear-Facing Infant Car Seat: These are designed specifically for newborns and younger babies. They come with a detachable base that stays in the car, making them convenient for travel.

• Proper Positioning: The harness straps should be at or below the baby's shoulders, and the chest clip should be at armpit level.

• Check Fit: The seat should recline at the correct angle to keep the baby's airway open. Most seats have indicators to help with positioning.

• Weight & Height Limits: Follow the car seat manual closely. Most infant seats support babies up to 30-35 lbs and 30-32 inches in height.

• Transitioning: Once your baby outgrows the infant seat (by height or weight), it's time to move to a rear-facing convertible seat.

👧 For Toddlers (1-4 Years)

🧒 Booster Seats (4+ Years)

• When to Transition:

  • Age 4-7

  • At least 40 lbs and 40 inches tall

• Proper Fit: The lap belt should rest on the upper thighs, not the stomach, and the shoulder belt should lay across the chest and shoulder.

• State Laws: In Kansas and Missouri, children must use a booster unless they are at least 80 lbs or 4'9" tall.

✅ When to Move to a Seatbelt Alone

Your child is ready to stop using a booster seat when:

• They can sit with their back against the seat and knees bend over the edge comfortably.

• The seatbelt fits properly: lap belt low on the hips, shoulder belt across the chest.

Take advantage of the Target trade-in event to refresh your child's gear-and rest easy knowing they're as safe as possible on the road.  Check out healthychildren.org if you want more information from the American Academy of Pediatrics.