How do I know when my child can use a seatbelt?
Most children do not fit into a seat belt properly until they are around 12 years old.
The 5 Step Test can help you check if your child is ready to wear an adult seat belt.
'The 5 step test'
The '5 step test' to check if your child is ready to move from a booster to a seat belt
- Can your child sit all the way back against the seat? YES or NO
- Do your child's knees bend comfortably in front of the edge of the seat? YES or NO
- Does the sash (shoulder) belt sit across the middle of the shoulder not on the neck or the arm? YES or NO
- Is the lap belt sitting low across the hip bones touching the thighs? YES or NO
- Can your child stay seated like this for the whole trip? YES or NO
YES = 5: YES Seat Belt
NO = 1 or more: NO Booster Seat