Did you know that 55% of new parents leaving the hospital make at least one major mistake when installing their newborn's car seat? The harness isn't tight enough; the chest strap is attached too low; or the harness isn't attached in the right slot.
However, according to statistics, a well-adjusted seat can reduce the risk of death in road tragedies by up to 70%. A word of advice: don't wait and have your child's seat checked. At Charlotte et Charlie, an installation and adjustment service, carried out by certified specialists, is even offered free of charge (when the seat was purchased in store).
A bench for everyone!
Are you hesitant about the wide selection of benches and seats available in store? We understand. To give you a helping hand, here are the favorite models of Charlotte and Charlie's team.
The baby seat
Facing backwards, the baby seat (commonly called the shell), is recommended from birth and up to at least 10 kg (22 lb). Opt for an ergonomic seat, easy to transport and attach to its base, with well-positioned pads that offer good protection. We also look for fabrics that let air through (to prevent baby from getting wet) and are easy to wash, an adjustable sun visor and a shell that will also attach to the stroller.
A word of advice: try it in store! Walk around. Lift it. The weight and ergonomics of the handle vary from one model to another. Even if the famous shell is always too heavy, some models are easier to carry. Mom's word!
Among our favorites: Mico AP 2.0 by Maxi Cosi (the lightest), Primo Viaggio by Peg Perego (for its comfort) and Mesa by UppaBaby (for its washable fabric and easy adjustments)
The child seat
Baby has grown, he now weighs over 22 pounds and seems stuck in his shell. Time for a new seat!
Called stage 2, the child seat is first rear-facing and then forward-facing. Even though the child's neck absorbs shocks better at this age, it still needs to be well protected. That's why this type of seat has 5-point harnesses that provide plenty of support, while being well-adapted to their little shoulders.
It is also recommended to keep the child facing rearward for as long as possible (up to two years). Little girl has long legs and seems uncomfortable? Try the convertible models, among the most popular at Charlotte and Charlie. Due to their ergonomics, these models allow for longer use facing rearward. Opt for a sure value, like the Viaggio Convertible by Peg Perego , which has expertise for 60 years, or the revolutionary technology and made in Canada of the FLLO by CLEK .
Very practical, hybrid models switch from a five-point harness to a seat belt as the child grows. We like this narrow model from Diono, the Radian RXT , which can seat up to three children in the back of the vehicle! Who can beat that?
The booster seat
Your child is no longer a toddler. Weighing 40 pounds or more, he demands a seat similar to yours! ( He demands many other things too, but that's another story...! ) It's time to get him a booster seat.
Using the vehicle's seat belt, this seat is primarily used to lift the child so that the belt falls in the correct place on his shoulders.
Among our favorites, we like the design of the seat with reclining backrest of the OOBR from CLEK . As well as the unmatched comfort of the seats from Britax , a brand that has proven itself for over 70 years.
Remember: it is the child's weight and height that determine the type of bench, not their age. ;-)
Have a good trip with your family!
