For the last few weeks I’ve been gathering carseat recommendations. It all started with a sister-to-sister conversation after I confessed my confusion with all the choices. Let me tell you, carseat shopping is a whole new ball game! Here is a synopsis of what I have gathered from my sis and the Andaluz Family Yahoo Group:
- Graco SnugRide vs. Graco SnugRide 32 – M’Lissa bought the 32, because it is supposed to fit your kiddo until they reach 32 pounds. The 32 is a bit more money than the plain SnugRide, but it’s supposed to last you longer; makes sense. In the end, M’Lissa moved her son into a bigger carseat before he ever reached 32 pounds since he seemed too big for it before hitting the weight limit. Bottom line – SnugRide Original seems to be the way to go if we opt for Graco, especially when we have no idea what our little one’s height/weight ratio will be.
- Size – some cars only accomodate certain types of carseats and if you are going to have multiple children in car seats in the car, then spacing becomes an issue to be considered!
- My best recommendation is to drive out to Segal’s in Beaverton. They will go over all the carseats with you and they install them for free. You can even decide which one you like best, shop around for the best deal and then bring it in and they’ll still install it. I personally buy my carseats from them to support their efforts. They are the only place in the state that offers free installation by certified and trained people. This is an expense and service they are providing for free and by purchasing from them, I am helping other parents who can’t afford to buy new seats or pay for installation to receive this benefit.
- I recommend checking out www.car-seat. org. There are lots of knowledgeable people there. You want to get a seat that fits your car well (not all seats fit great with all cars).
- I would also recommend checking out the National Traffic Safety Administrations Ease of Use website http://www.nhtsa. gov/Safety/ Ease-of-Use. This rates the carseats on things like how easy it is to follow the instructions or how easy or hard it is to install in your car.
It was so helpful to hear everyone’s personal carseat experiences; What strollers they used, safety features, how they fit in the car, cost, and ease of use. I’m already finding the truth in “it takes a village to raise a child”. There is no way I would want to go at these decisions alone.
Dominic’s response to all of this was priceless … They’re all the same to me. You just let me know what you like and why with a few different options and I will help you narrow it down.
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