Baby Registry 101: Lesson #7- Convertble Carseats

Toddler carseats, front facing or convertible carseats are often overlooked in a baby registry. New moms are so excited for that new infant carrier that they don't realize baby only sits in there until they reach a certain height or weight, which is most likely less than 1 year. For me, I was able to lug around the infant carrier until my little one was about 8 months old. Than I switched to the convertible carseat. The convertible seat is able to face rear or forward.

Here is the deal:
Infant carriers are nice- they are convenient and make life easy when the baby is small. Once the baby starts to get heavy- lugging around a 18lb child in a 13lb carrier is not so fun. Also- these are INFANT carriers. These are meant for babies who cannot support their neck. This is why baby is at a 45 degree angle in the seat when properly installed.

Once you are ready for the carseat you can use the convertible carseat and have the baby rear facing. After they are at least 1 year and 20lbs you can face them forward.

So, now that you realize your child will be in the convertible carseat for a longer percentage of time versus the infant carrier, you can see why it is important to register for a really nice one. When baby is about 1 year you may not feel like spending $200 on a carseat, but if you already have one from your shower, no worries!

Our favorite Convertible seat:

The Britax Roundabout Carseat

Why we love it:

• It holds a child from 5lbs to 40lbs (you can in get by with getting only this one seat - until they are ready for a booster!)
  
• Plush fabrics make it cozy
• Easy to install. We love easy!
• Seatbelt does not rub baby's neck like other seats
• High safety ratings