When an infant-only seat is outgrown, a toddler seat must replace it. A convertible seat, however, may be changed to fit a toddler by following the manufacturer's instructions. When a convertible seat is in the toddler position, it looks and functions exactly like a toddler-only seat. The manufacturer's directions explain how to convert a seat from one position to another, how to rethread the harness, and how to reroute the car's lap belt through the seat in the toddler position. In addition, the instructions will explain when the child is big enough to require the toddler position.
Convertible seats save money because only one seat is needed as the child grows.
Some convertible seats have a tether that must be anchored if the seat is in the toddler position. If a tether is required, follow the manufacturer's installation directions carefully. They can only be used forward-facing. Most contain a harness to protect a child's upper body, but a few seats use a shield system instead and some have both. It is important to attach the lap belt exactly as recommended by the manufacturer.