What car safety device is recommended for an 8-year-old child who is 4 feet tall?

For an 8-year-old child who is 4 feet tall, using a booster seat is recommended to ensure optimal safety during car travel. Booster seats are designed to elevate the child so that the vehicle’s seatbelt fits properly over their shoulder and lap, reducing the risk of injury in the event of a collision.

At this height, a child may not be adequately protected by just using a seatbelt alone, as seatbelts are typically designed for adult body sizes. A booster seat helps fill that gap, making sure that the lap belt rests across the top part of the thighs, and the shoulder belt crosses the chest at the appropriate position.

In contrast, a car seat is generally intended for younger children or those who do not meet the height and weight requirements for a booster. Sitting in the front seat may expose the child to increased risk in the event of airbag deployment, and a safety harness is usually for younger children or those with specific safety needs rather than an 8-year-old at this height. Therefore, the use of a booster seat aligns with safety guidelines for children of this age and size.