The guidelines for when babies can face forward in car seat vary depending on the country and specific regulations. However, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and many other child safety organizations recommend that children remain in a rear-facing car seat until they reach the maximum weight or height limit specified by the car seat manufacturer.
The AAP previously recommended keeping children rear-facing until at least 2 years of age, but in their updated policy statement from 2018, they now advise keeping children rear-facing for as long as possible, up to the maximum limits of the car seat. This is because rear-facing seats provide better support for a child’s head, neck, and spine, reducing the risk of serious injuries in the event of a crash.
It’s important to check the car seat’s manual and follow the specific guidelines provided by the manufacturer. These guidelines will typically outline the appropriate weight and height ranges for both rear-facing and forward-facing use of the seat.
Remember, it is safest to keep your child in a rear-facing car seat for as long as possible based on the recommendations and limits set by the car seat manufacturer, rather than rushing to turn them forward-facing prematurely.
For more information please check the article Keep Child Passengers Safe on the Road