It’s probably the most daunting trip you will make but it’s also just the beginning of your great adventure. Prepare for your trip ahead of time with our expert tips, so you can relax and enjoy the ride!
8+ WEEKS BEFORE DUE DATE
Select a child restraint that fits your baby and your vehicle(s).
Your choices are:
Your Baby: When selecting a child restraint, first make sure it’s an appropriate seat for a newborn. Make sure it fits your vehicle. We would recommend that you use a Capsule or Infant Carrier for those initial months, then transition to a Rear Facing Child Restraint until the age of 2.
Your Vehicle: Factors like the vehicle seat belt system, vehicle seat design, and the distance between the front and rear seats can affect whether a child restraint can be installed securely in a vehicle. If the child restraint will be used in a small vehicle, determine if in the rear facing position it will fit. Since not all vehicles are the same, be sure that the child restraint you choose installs securely in ALL vehicles that it will be used in.
4-8 WEEKS BEFORE DUE DATE
- Before installing the child restraint, read the child restraint user guide AND the section in your vehicle manual regarding child restraint installation. Some manufacturers, including Britax, also offer videos on their website or Youtube to demonstrate proper installation and use.
- Use a doll, if available, to practice adjusting the harness height, tightening and loosening the harness around the child, and buckling and unbuckling the harness.
- Consider visiting a Professional Restraint Fitter with any questions or concerns about proper use or installation approximately 4-6 weeks before your scheduled delivery date.
AFTER BIRTH, BEFORE DISCHARGE
- Practice securing your baby in the child restraint.
- Once settled in after birth, but before you’re discharged from the hospital, if it is practical bring the child restraint into your room and practice placing your baby in the child restraint, adjusting the harness height, and securing the harness.
Don’t wait until the last minute when you are discharged – you may feel rushed and become frustrated, increasing the chances that you will secure your baby in the child restraint incorrectly.
1-2 MONTHS AFTER BIRTH
- Follow up with an visit to a professional restraint fitter to check that you are using the child restraint correctly and it fitted to your child requirements.
- Consider visiting a Professional Restraint Fitter again 6 months after your child’s birth. You may have questions once you have used the child restraint regularly, or as your baby grows and their position in the child restraint changes.
KNOW FOR SURE. GET IT DONE RIGHT.
Book with a professional fitter:
https://www.hireforbaby.com/product-category/restraint-fittings/
