Car Seat Checks

I have a car seat clinic running twice a month right now.

They run the second and fourth Thursday from 3:00 pm - 6:00pm at Birth Rhythms/Mothers Melody. (248 3rd. Ave. S). It is downtown, and because parking is a little difficult (to say the least!) I often get parents/caregivers to come into the alley beside the building and send me a quick text/phone call when you get there and I'll meet you out there!

I know that doesn't always work for everyone. Please give me a call and I can try to fit you in on a day that works for you. There are a couple other technicians and clinics in the city. If I can't help you, I'll provide a name and number for someone who can. You can also take a look at the SGI website for any information, locate a technician where you are, or find a clinic.

http://www.sgi.sk.ca/online_services/locators/carseattech/index.html

There is NO charge for any of this.


One of the first questions I ask... "Have you read your car seat manual?" The second... "Have you read your car manual?" 

There are hundreds of different kinds of car seats and cars in Saskatchewan. Different years, different models. Each car seat and car will have different rules. I could tell you that you can't use the two outboard latches to hook your seat up in the middle (you'd have to use the seatbelt) but some cars you can. I can tell you the middle is the safest - but until i take a look at what kind of seat, what kind of seat belt i won't know for sure.

So here's what I recommend.

I recommend you read your manuals. Put the seat in. Play with all the attachments, with the car seat.. and make sure you're comfortable with it.

Then call me.

I'll take a look, give you some pointers... and make sure the seat is installed correctly and safely. If it's not, i'll teach you so you know for next time.

What to expect in a check from me?

I have a check list from SGI that I'll have with me on a clip board. This goes through all the points that we go over. One copy goes to SGI and one you keep for your reference. If there is any new information that i give you, I'll most likely put it on there for you to refer back to.

I'll take a look at your seat - answer any questions you might have.

Once the seat is properly installed, we'll chat about the position of the straps and the chest clip. We'll make sure they are in the correct position for you child at that moment, and I'll provide the information you need as your child grows. If you have had your baby, or you're installing a seat for a child, i do recommend you have them along. If that's not possible, or baby has not been born yet, I have been known to use a doll to put in your seat and show you a visual of how the straps should be.

Once your comfortable with your seat and all the new (or old!) information that I've given you. I'll hand you your copy and that's it! This will take anywhere from 5-30 minutes... depending on what we have to do.

And here's the thing -

You and only you (and every person who puts your baby in the seat) is responsible. I can give information and recommendations. There are laws surrounding kids in car seats, but ultimately - you decide. You decide if you want your seat in tight, you decide if you want the straps tight around your child (even if they are protesting). You decide when you want to forward face, you decide if your child stays in the car seat more then recommended. You decide. My hope is that I can provide enough information for you to make an educated choice.