When it comes to car seats, Graco is a name that is well-known and respected. But what many parents don’t know is that Graco also makes a great booster seat for kids who are already big enough to use a car seat. If you have a child who is nearing the end of their infant stage, but isn’t quite ready for a standard-sized car seat, converting their Graco car seat into a booster seat can be a great solution. Here are just a few tips on how to do it!
Materials You Will Need
Materials You Will Need
–Graco car seat
-Booster seat
-Carabiner or strap
-Scissors
-Ruler or a straight edge
-Permanent marker or a pencil
-Tape measure
-Cordless drill/driver with 1/2 inch bit
-1 inch hole saw
-Coaster nut wrench (optional)
-Safety goggles (optional)
1. Begin by removing the Graco carseat from your vehicle. If the carseat has a base, remove it first by unscrewing the screws that hold it in place. You will need to do this for both types of seats. You can then remove the cover and straps, if applicable. You will also need to detach the shoulder belt from the child’s waist. Check instruction booklet for specific details on how to do this. Once all of the pieces are removed, you can start preparing your booster seat. 2. Measure your child’s height and weight using a tape measure and draw a size chart on some paper or drawers near where you will be working. 3. Next, find a booster seat that matches your child’s height and weight on the size chart you created earlier (or online). 4. Make sure that the booster seat is comfortable for your child to sit in by sitting in it yourself and checking that all of the straps and padding fit comfortably around your child’s body, including their shoulders and hips
Instructions
If you own a Graco car seat, it’s time to convert it into a booster seat. Follow these simple steps:
1. remove the safety belt from your child’s car seat and transfer the weight of your child to the new booster seat. If your child is too heavy for the booster seat, consult a pediatrician about getting a child restraint system (CRS).
2. place the lap/shoulder belt around your child’s waist and secure it with the safety belt strap. The shoulder belt should be placed low on their back so that it doesn’t rub against their neck or interfere with breathing.
3. adjust the headrests so that they are in a comfortable position for your child and make sure that the straps are tight enough to keep the headrests in place but not so tight that they cause pain or discomfort. Your child may also need support when sitting in this position to help them maintain balance.
Tips for Safe Installation
1. Follow the instructions that come with your Graco car seat to find out how to convert it into a booster seat.
2. Use safety straps to secure your child in the seat, and make sure that the harness is tight enough so that it doesn’t slip off.
3. Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for using a booster seat, and be sure to use one that is appropriate for your child’s age and weight.
4. Place your child in the booster seat on the floor or in a low chair, so that their head does not exceed the top of the car seat shoulder belt.
5. If you have an infant or toddler who can’t sit up unaided, place them in a carrier or sling between you and the back of the car seat while you drive, then remove them once you reach your destination.