Another mystery of the universe: She has fallen asleep during many car rides (she's about 6 months old here). Is it out of boredom, or the soothing hum of the car motor? ALTHEA PETERSON/Tulsa World
If it weren't for safety reasons, I'd love to have my daughter sit up front with me in the car.
However, my pediatrician has said since the first appointment (a few days after leaving the hospital) that her seat should be rear facing until she is 2 years old, as well as in the back seat.
Even at 3 days old, when we were taking her home from the hospital, the nurses followed us out to the car to be assured that she was being taken home in a rear facing seat.
So, what is good safety advice, and what is Oklahoma's law? Here's what
OK.gov says:
1- Children 5 years old or younger must be properly restrained in either a child car seat or a booster seat appropriate for their height and weight.
2- Children ages 6-12 must be properly restrained in either a child car seat, booster seat, or seat belt.
Teens, adults please note: This doesn't mean you don't have to wear a seat belt after you turn 12.
Click it or ticket!
"Properly restrained" means that the restraint system is correctly installed and being used in accordance with the seat manufacturer's instructions, according to the government site.
Laws vary from state to state, so if you're planning to travel,
here's info on all 50 state laws for children and vehicles.
In the meantime, my daughter will be staying in her back, rear facing seat until she turns 2, as recommended by her pediatrician.
My husband noted that when he saw us out driving last week, I appeared to be dramatically singning while driving.
I definitely was. Rear facing back seats are boring, otherwise.
--Althea Peterson
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