Is My Child Ready for Stage 4?

A seat belt alone can be used when children are tall enough for it to be positioned correctly and can use it properly. In Ontario, the child must be over the age of 8 years or weigh more than 36kg (80lbs) or is taller than 145cm (4’ 9”). However, height is a very important factor for maximizing the effectiveness of a seat belt, and most children don't reach this height until at least age 11.

Child Seat Belt Check

• The seat belt is positioned properly over the shoulder, across the collarbone and lays flat across the hips.

Tips

• Your child must sit with his/her feet on the floor, knees bent comfortably at the edge of the vehicle seat and back straight against the seat back 100% of the time.