When it comes to buying a booster seat for your child, you’ll find that there are two primary types on the market: backless booster seats and high back booster seats. Oftentimes, these seats are one and the same, since many booster seats have a removable back rest that allows you to determine which type of seat you want to use.

As a general rule, high back booster seats are a safer choice for small and young children. These seats provide a more comfortable head rest for a child’s small body, and they harness the seat belt in such a way that the restraining device won’t injure the child in an accident. However, older kids often find the high back booster seats to be confining, and it can be much easier (and faster) for an adult to snap a child in a backless booster seat.

There are pros and cons to the backless booster seat, and all children react differently to the restraining devices. You’ll also want to be sure and comply with all your local laws and the booster seat brand specifications to make sure you take your child’s height, weight, and age into account.

Backless Booster Seat Pros

• Lower cost
• More comfortable in newer vehicles with built-in head rests
• Easy installation and use
• Kid-friendly
• More suited for older children

Backless Booster Seat Cons

• Reduced safety features (particularly in younger and smaller children)
• Increased risk of slipping
• Not recommended for children under age six

No matter which type of booster seat you use, it’s only going to be effective if you buckle your child in correctly. Safety belts should always be fastened securely and pulled tight across the body, both of which can be facilitated by child seat belt safety devices like the SeatSnug. The lap belt should rest across the pelvis, and not the stomach, and the shoulder strap should never dig into the child’s neck.

It’s always good to monitor your kids from time to time, too. Excessive wiggling, leaning forward, and play time in the car can move the seat belt from its original position.