5. Moving to a forward-facing car seat too soon

Parents often want to see their child's face in the rearview mirror. That means they might want to turn the car seat forward facing before it's recommended. But riding rear facing for as long as possible is the safest option. It's suggested until a child reaches the highest weight or height allowed by the car seat maker. You can start with a convertible seat. It can be used rear facing and, later, forward facing. It typically has a higher rear-facing weight and height limit than does an infant-only seat. Or you can switch from an infant-only seat to a convertible car seat as your baby grows.

When your child reaches the weight or height limit of the convertible seat, you can face the seat forward. When you make the switch:

• Install the car seat in the back seat according to the seat maker's instructions. Use either the seat belt or Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children (LATCH) system.
• Use the tether strap to keep the seat extra stable. It's a strap that hooks to the top of the seat and attaches to an anchor in the car.
• Adjust the harness straps so that they're at or above your child's shoulder level. Make sure they fit snugly.