Based on the guidance for the 4-7 age range, a 4-year-old should typically be in a forward-facing car seat with a harness and tether.
According to the reference provided, for children aged 4 – 7 Years:
"Keep your child in a forward-facing car seat with a harness and tether until he or she reaches the top height or weight limit allowed by your car seat's manufacturer."
This means the primary focus for a 4-year-old is staying in a forward-facing car seat with a harness, provided they have not yet exceeded the maximum height or weight limits set by the car seat manufacturer.
Transitioning to a Booster Seat
The reference clearly states the criteria for moving to the next stage:
- "Once your child outgrows the forward-facing car seat with a harness, it's time to travel in a booster seat, but still in the back seat."
So, the key is not just the age of 4, but ensuring the child hasn't yet reached the specific height and weight limits of their current forward-facing car seat.
Key Considerations for a 4-Year-Old's Car Seat
- Seat Type: Generally, a forward-facing car seat with a 5-point harness and tether.
- Duration in Seat: Remain in this type of seat until the child reaches the maximum height or weight limit specified by the car seat manufacturer.
- Checking Limits: Always consult your specific car seat's manual for its height and weight restrictions. These vary significantly between models and brands.
- Next Step: After outgrowing the forward-facing harnessed seat, the child should move to a belt-positioning booster seat.
In summary, for a 4-year-old, the appropriate "size" car seat is a forward-facing one with a harness and tether, designed to accommodate their current height and weight until they reach the seat's maximum capacity.
