Booster car seats are a great transition piece for children who are not quite big enough to ride like the grownups. Like any other safety restraint, it is important you know what exactly it is you're shopping for, and buy accordingly. Especially with boosters, it's vital to consider recent safety standards so your child has the best chance possible, should an accident occur.

Experts at organizations such as the American Academy of Pediatrics recommend booster car seats for school-aged children who have fully outgrown their forward facing car seats. They then usually remain in the booster until they are able to properly wear an adult seat belt, which happens at around 4'9". Your child may be taller or shorter than this, depending upon his weight and the maximum adjustments of your convertible car seat. You will know your child has officially outgrown his car seat when his shoulders are resting above the top slots of the harness, or his ears are in alignment with the top of the seat. Boosters are designed to "boost" kids up to an appropriate height level to use standard seat belts. Unlike car seats with their included harnesses, booster car seats are used in cooperation with your car's already-installed belt system. Boosters come in two styles - high back and backless. There is no benefit to either, other than style and comfort preferences. Lap belts cannot be used with booster car seats, which is important to know before you make a purchase. Evaluate your car's settings so you know exactly what will or will not work with your vehicle.

You will want to purchase a high-back booster if your car does not have headrests and/or the seats are lower than what is considered standard. Backless boosters, which are also very safe, are convenient for parents who need to continually move the booster from one car to another, or if the chosen vehicle has high seat backs or useful headrests.

Not sure what brand to choose? Try the Britax Regent Youth Booster Car Seat , which comes with a bonus harness for kids not quite ready to make the transition. In four whimsical seat cover designs, children will love the comfortable padding of this booster, while parents will enjoy the safety provided by both the harness and standard seat belt use.

The Big Kid Deluxe by Evenflo is another great choice. This can be converted into a backless booster for kids over 40 pounds, and can hold a child up to 100. With removable and washable parts, it is ideal for families who plan to take it on extended car rides where snack spills are bound to happen.

Booster car seats are a great choice for children looking to feel like a "big kid" and ditch the constraints of the standard car seat world. They allow parents a great compromise, and everyone is happy they're along for the ride!