***Types of Forward Facing Car Seats***
I get asked a lot of questions about types of forward facing car seats. There is often a lot of confusion between these types of seats and what they are called. Often times caregivers ask about moving to a “booster” when they mean a “combination” car seat (forward facing only car seat with a 5 point harness that turns into a booster). Combination seats are sometimes called “harnessed booster” by manufacturers; however, the term “harness to booster” is a more accurate description. An actual “booster” or a “belt-positioning booster” uses the seat belt of the car only.
Hopefully this graphic will help clear up the difference between these seats!
convertible car seat: rear facing, forward facing with harness
multi-mode/all-in-one car seat: rear facing, forward facing with harness, belt positioning booster
combination car seat: forward facing with harness, belt positioning booster
*There is no safety difference between these seats when forward facing for a child who fits the limits and is the right age for the seat
*Child must be at least 2 years old, ideally 3-4, before forward facing
*Child must be at least 5 and mature enough to sit correctly to use a booster
For more extensive information about forward facing:
Car Seats for The Littles:
Forward Facing: The Hows and The Whys
The Right Seat for the Forward Facing Child
Converting a seat from Rear Facing to Forward Facing
Red Barn Basics 