forYour children | Parents are flipping car seats too soon

forYour children | Parents are flipping car seats too soon



Most parents flip their child's car seat forward-facing too early, and loved ones who know better often don't speak up. A new campaign aimed at creating awareness is hoping to change that.



A new study from baby brand Chicco reports 72% of parents say they are uncomfortable talking to other parents about keeping their children riding rear-facing before age 2, even though most know American Academy of Pediatrics' recommendations.



The AAP says all infants and toddlers should ride in a rear-facing seat until they are at least 2 or until they reach the highest weight or height allowed by their car safety seat manufacturer. The CDC reports 59% of car seats are misused in a way that could reduce effectiveness. This comes at a time when motor vehicle injuries are the leading cause of death among U.S. children.





Dr. David Hill, pediatrician and Chicco child passenger safety spokesperson, said rear-facing car seats are five times safer than front-facing in a crash.



Daphne Oz, celebrity ambassador for TurnAfter2, said at a time when parents are bombarded with advice and information, often they're left to "guess" what's best for their children. She says TurnAfter2 promotes a positive way for parents to help each other keep families safe while traveling.