Stage 1: Rear-Facing Infant or Child Seat

Seat Installation Check

  • Child is facing the back of the vehicle.
  • Seat is reclined at the proper angle (see your manual)
  • The seat does not move more than 1 inch side to side or forward at the belt path.
  • There are no unregulated aftermarket products such as head positioners, bunting bags, harness covers, etc.

Child Harness Check

  • The harness straps begin at or below the child’s shoulders
  • You can’t pinch any excess harness strap at the child's collarbone
  • The chest clip is flat against the chest and in line with the child’s armpits
  • There are no twists or folds in the harness straps

Tips

Most babies outgrow their infant bucket seat before they are ready to move to stage 2 (forward facing).  When your child outgrows the maximum height or weight of his/her infant seat, you will likely require a convertible rear-facing seat until your child is ready to face forward. Many seats can rear face a child up to 18kg (40lbs) or more.

When is My Child Ready for Stage 2?

For his/her safety, your child should stay rear-facing as long as possible. Best practice is to remain rear facing to the limits of the seat. (CPSAC, 2015)