Keeping your baby rear-facing provides better protection during a crash. Studies have shown that babies and toddlers are five times safer riding in a rear-facing seat than in a forward-facing position. The head, neck, and spine are better supported when the seat faces backward during a crash. Additionally, convertible car seats that can accommodate rear-facing infants and toddlers up to 40 pounds or first birthday are now widely available, allowing parents to keep their babies in the safest position for even longer than before.