Children are our most precious cargo. Most parents use child safety seats for babies and toddlers but jump too quickly to adult seatbelts for their older children. If your child is under eight, the Illinois law says they must still ride in a child safety seat. Aside from the law, there are many more reasons why booster seats are so important. Motor vehicle crashes still remain the leading cause of death for children ages 5-14. In 2008, Illinois had 43 children under the age of 14 killed and 7,364 children injured in motor vehicle crashes.

Children in the 4-8 age group are often referred to as the “forgotten child” because they are too big for child safety seats yet too small for adult seat belts. If young children use an adult seat belt too soon, they are four times more likely to suffer devastating injuries, including severe damage to the brain, liver and spleen. Booster seats provide the added height that children need to allow the seatbelt to fit properly. Booster seats raise the child up so that the lap and shoulder seat belts fit properly. In addition, they prevent children from sliding forward on the edge of the seat. Booster seats are inexpensive and easy to use. The more safety measures you take, the better chance your child has at surviving a crash.

When choosing a booster seat, remember, the best choice is the one that fits your child, fits your vehicle and is used correctly every time. Always read the booster seat instruction manual as well as the vehicle manual. Each manufacturer provides specific instructions regarding proper use and installation of their seats. Always remember that all children under the age of 13 should ride in the back seat.

Child car seat safety check will be held Sat. Oct 16, 9am-11:30am, Crystal Lake Montessori, 3013 Country Club Road, Woodstock. Info at 815-338-2144.