Booster seats are made to ensure a child is secured in a vehicle after outgrowing the car seat and before being of the proper weight and height to fit securely in a seat belt. Generally, this is between the ages of four and twelve. There are basically two types of booster seats: Backless and convertible.
The convertible booster seat looks very much like a car seat used for baby. The difference is that the seat belt encircles the child as well as the seat. It is not secured separately to the seat of the car with the safety belt. These seats do not have to be kept in the car, stationary as is usually the case with baby car seats.
Since the child is usually graduating from the car seat to the booster seat, the convertible type is a good way to make the transition. The back provides support and cushioning which increases the comfort for the child and is similar to the rear-facing seat that they are accustomed to.
Another important part of the convertible booster seat is the head rest. This is especially important when taking longer trips during which the child may fall asleep. Arm-rests are also a feature for comfort but are not always a part of convertible designs. Convertible booster seats can come with a variety of features including cup holders and pockets for toys and activities.
The most significant aspect of the convertible booster seat is that the back is removable. This enables the parent to accommodate the child who has outgrown the need and size restrictions of the back but still needs a boost to fit properly into the safety belt. Once the back is removed, the seat and arm-rests remain.
The backless booster seat is the same as the convertible booster seat after the back is removed. The color, fabric and some aesthetic aspects may vary but the essential design will be the same and serve the same purpose.
The nice thing about the backless booster seat, whether it is the converted type or originally backless, is that it is easy for the child to take possession of it. By the time a child meets the height and weight requirements to fit the backless booster seat they can carry it and set it up themselves in the car.
Both types of booster seats are available in colors and fabrics meant to entice the child. Most styles have machine-washable components and are easy to care for.
