Premature Graduation of Children from Child Restraints to Vehicle Safety Belts

摘要

Belt-positioning booster seats are recommended for children between 40 and 80pounds, however, usage is estimated at only 5% nationally. The goal of this project was to determine reasons for the premature graduation of children from child safety seats to vehicle seat belts and to suggest strategies for increasing booster seat use. The project utilized multiple methods, including a review of existing literature and programs regarding premature graduation and booster seat use; discussions with parents, children, and experts via telephone or focus groups; and facilitated brainstorming sessions. These qualitative methods were used to gain a broad understanding of the issues relating to the premature use of seat belts by young children and to suggest strategies to increase booster seat use. This research showed that the premature graduation of children from child safety seats to vehicle seat belts occurs for a variety of reasons. Most notably, a parent's perception of risk of their child being injured in a crash plays an