Things to remember:

• For a premature or low birth weight baby, a rear-facing, infant-only car seat will provide the best fit and the safest conditions.
• The seat must meet the Canada Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (CMVSS) in order to be used in Canada.
• Infant-only car seats with a length of less than 13.75 cm from the crotch strap to the seat back will help to prevent your baby’s body from slumping forward.
• Look for car seats with a length of less than 25 cm from the lower shoulder harness strap to the seat bottom.  Harness slots should be at or below your baby’s shoulders.

And in case you’ve forgotten: Your Baby Must Travel Rear-Facing! The infant car seat should be reclined at a 45-degree angle. NEVER place a rear-facing car seat in front of an active airbag!

Your baby will need to travel in the rear-facing position until all of these criteria are met:

• The baby is at least 1-year old
• The baby weighs 22 lbs (10 kg)
• The baby is able to walk unassisted

It’s recommended that a baby travel in the rear-facing position for as long as possible. In fact, some car seats can support a child up to 40 lbs (18 kg) in the rear-facing position

Placing Premature or Low Birth Weight Infant in the Car Seat has 2 steps:

           STEP 1 - Your car seat needs to be put in the vehicle properly
           STEP 2 - Your baby needs to be put in the infant car seat properly.

To keep the infant from falling over sideways with the movement of the car, place rolled towels on either side of the baby, around its head and on the outside of the harness straps. Never place additional padding behind the infant.

Don’t use a head hugger unless it comes with the seat.

To keep the baby from slipping forward, roll a small blanket or diaper between the crotch strap and the infant. Harness straps should be in the lowest slots at or below the baby's shoulders.

For more detailed information on the precise car seat you choose, please refer to the car seat instructions or call the car seat manufacturer.

Links

Installing Rear-Facing Seats
Rear-Facing Seats FAQ

NOTE: The information presented here is to be used as a guideline only and cannot be substituted for proper medical opinion. Please speak with your child’s doctor for specific information on the medical and transportation needs of your child.