The statistics speak for themselves, the number of child victims of road accidents is still too high.  Risky driving, lack of respect for speed limits, or the lack of use of safety devices, that research has proven can significantly reduce the consequences of an accident.

The most important safety device is certainly the car seat. It must always be used in the correct way and with the harness fastened, even if the journey is short, and even if one is late. We always have the duty to think first about the safety of our child and spend one minute to fasten him in properly with the safety harness. Many children certainly, protest because they feel strapped in, but you must never give in to their complaints and this simple life-saving gesture must become an indisputable habit. A habit to always be confirmed by setting a good example – as soon as we get into the car, we too should fasten our seat belts – and why not also try the persuasive power of playing a game. All it takes is to transform the car into a spaceship and to involve the child in a fantastic trip among the wonders of our imagination.

Particular attention should be given to the choice of the car seat. If you have more than a child you can also re-use the same seat, but if you are not sure of the condition and the integrity of a used seat used that was given to you as a gift, you should buy a new one to be on the safe side.

The seats are divided into “groups” according to the weight of the child being carried.

For children from three years onwards there are Group 2-3 seats (15-36 Kg) or 1-2-3 (9-36 Kg). Although some of these seats also allow their use without the backrest (like a simple booster seat), it is always however preferable to use them with the backrest, since, especially in the case of side impact, the seat guarantees much higher protection for the child. It is always advisable to position the seat on the back seat and preferably on the side nearest the pavement, to allow the child to climb in and out of the car safely.

Information supplied by the Chicco Observatory

The Chicco Observatory follows child development with the collaboration of mothers, doctors, expert paediatricians, children’s associations and nurseries to propose the ideal solution for each phase of its’ growth