By Peggie Mars
Founder, Wheel Well – Child Road Safety NGO

Why Weight Alone Isn’t the Whole Story

Hitting the 36 kg upper limit on a booster seat can leave parents wondering: “Is my child ready to move to the adult seat belt?” The answer isn’t always straightforward—because weight alone doesn’t tell the whole story.

The Booster and Seat Belt: A Team for Safety

Booster seats don’t just raise a child – they work together with the seat belt to keep your child safe. The lap belt should sit low on the hips, and the shoulder belt should cross the chest, not the neck.

The adult seat belt is designed to restrain far more than 36 kg. So, if your child reaches that weight before they are tall enough for proper belt fit, the booster may still be the safest option.

Booster seats are tested and certified under ECE R44/04 and the newer ECE R129 / i-Size standards, which ensure proper belt positioning and crash performance.

Shopping for a Booster: Think Ahead

A booster seat is not a short-term purchase – it’s something your child may use for six years or more. When shopping for a booster, parents should consider:

• Current weight and height, and how the child is likely to grow
• Comfort for larger or taller children, especially those above the 85th percentile
• Belt positioning and the booster’s ability to maintain correct fit over time

Thinking with the end in mind helps ensure that the booster will continue to provide proper belt alignment and comfort throughout childhood. Some boosters are designed to accommodate children of a bigger build, allowing them to sit safely and comfortably as they grow.

Comfort and Fit for Children Above the 85th Percentile

Children come in all shapes and sizes. For those above the 85th percentile, comfort is just as important as safety. A well-fitting booster ensures the seat belt stays in the correct position while allowing your child to sit comfortably for every journey. Choosing a booster that considers both belt fit and comfort helps your child stay properly restrained, happy, and secure on longer trips.

How to Know Your Child is Ready

Use the belt-fit test:

• Lap belt low across the hips
• Shoulder belt across the mid-shoulder and chest
• Child sits comfortably all the way back against the seat
• Their knees can bend comfortably over the edge of the seat
• And they can sit like this for the whole ride.

If these checks aren’t passed – even if your child is heavier than 36 kg – the booster remains the safest choice.

You’re Not Alone on This Journey

Every child grows differently, and car seat decisions can feel overwhelming. This is a shared journey, and we’re here to help. Sometimes a conversation in time can save money and frustrations.

If you’re unsure whether your child is ready to transition out of a booster – or which booster is right for their build – WhatsApp us on 073 393 7356 or visit our website at www.wheelwell.co.za. Together, we’ll ensure your child stays safe, comfortable, and confident on every journey.

The Takeaway

Weight alone doesn’t dictate when a child should move out of a booster. Seat belt fit, positioning, comfort, and forward-thinking booster choice are what truly matter. By thinking ahead and choosing the right booster for your child’s current size and expected growth, you set them up for years of safe travel.

Remember – the booster and seat belt are a team, keeping your child protected every step of the way.