If you have a preterm or low birth weight baby, take extra care to choose a car seat that's right for a preterm or low birth weight baby. Use it for every ride. 

If you are not sure if your baby is preterm or low birth weight, talk to your healthcare provider.

Make every ride a safe ride for your baby. Review the information on infant car seats and rear-facing car seats to install and use your car seat. An infant (rear-facing only) car seat is a safer choice for preterm or low birth weight babies. Use the information below to make sure your car seat fits your baby’s small size.

Helpful tips for using your car seat with a preterm or low birth weight baby

 

• The car seat's lowest shoulder harness slots should be less than 25 cm (10 inches) from the bottom of the seat.
• The slot for the crotch strap should be less than 14 cm (5.5 inches) from the back of the seat.
• Make sure your car seat is safe to use.

• Make sure your baby's buttocks and back are flat against the back of the car seat.
• If your baby needs help staying in the centre of the car seat, place a small, rolled-up receiving blanket or towel on either side of their body.
• If your baby slides down in the seat, call the car seat manufacturer to find out if you can place a small, rolled-up receiving blanket or towel between your baby’s legs and the crotch strap.
• Take your baby out of the car seat when you arrive. A car seat is not a safe place for your baby to sleep.

For more information, visit Healthy Parents, Healthy Children or call Health Link at 811.​​