Friend said he doesn't use car seat
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Anonymous
| We had a playdate with a friend of DC who got into our backseat and pushed aside the booster seat. I had picked child up from their young nanny. The child who just turned 7 told me she doesn't use car seats in her family car. (I do remember seeing this child climb into their family car with no car seat before). I was driving them some distance and the seat belt without the booster was across child's neck (she tried putting it behind her back and using the lower one only). I told her that in my car she would have to use the booster for safety, which she did with little complaint. What would you have done? I feel weird saying anything to the parent because I don't think they use booster seats. |
Anonymous
| I'd have done what you did. Don't give it another thought. When I'm in charge of you, I get to decide how to best keep you safe. |
Anonymous
| Same as you and pp, including not lecturing parent about booster. Also, there might be a different fit in their regular car. I have an extra booster (to give for my kids in another car or use in our car for a friend) because our kids and friends are at an in-between stage. |
Anonymous
| My car, my rules. |
Anonymous
| Aren't boosters required by law until age 8? |
Anonymous
No, they are not. |
Anonymous
In DC and VA boosters (or harnessed car seats) are required without exception for passengers under age 8. In MD they are required under age 8 unless the passenger is at least 4'9''. |
Anonymous
| Definitely required in DC until 8. |
Anonymous
|
"In our car, all kids use booster seats. It's the rule."
If he protests, shrug and tell him again "That's the rule." And let him know you all aren't going anywhere until he sits on the booster and straps himself in. |
Anonymous
| As long as the child complied, I wouldn't say anything to the parents. |
Anonymous
|
DS6 has a friend who's mom does use any car seats for her kid (also 6). DS reported driving to their house and being so excited to sit in the way back of the car with their feet up!
While I enjoyed the 80s flashback, that was the last time he was allowed to be in their car. |
Anonymous
Yes, they are. It would be good if cars got stickers for the dash and maybe the rear seats upon registration with the state's occupant restraint laws. Maybe something like http://www.safercar.gov/parents/CarSeats/Right-Car-Seat-Age-Size.htm?view=full, with updated age cutoffs. States could even mail replacement stickers if there's a change. |
Anonymous
Maryland has a height limit of 4'9" where you don't need booster. |
Anonymous
Yes. Virginia and DC don't have this exception. |
Anonymous
An 8 year old who is 4'9" would be significantly above the 99% in height, so it's not an exception that would come up often. Except, I guess, this is DCUM, where everyone's kid is in the 99th percentile in everything. |