Highback vs backless boosters

vbmeg

So I know we have all discussed the "rules" of FF/RF but a friend of mine asked me a question about boosters and I didn't have a solid answer. She asked when toddlers (she has a 4 year old, over 40 lbs) can move to a backless booster. I wasn't really sure bc I have no plans to take DD out of the 5pt harness in the Nautilus until she is 65lbs. Her DD is in the nautilus as a highback (no harness) since she turned 4 (she was 42lbs and tall) but she wants to move her 2year old into the nautilus. Long story short, now she wants to buy just a booster seat since it is "easier" but she wasn't sure of the rules. I wasn't sure how to respond to her! I also noticed when I picked DD up from preschool today that she has a couple classmates who are in backless boosters which surrised me. Is there a rule/law about highback vs backless boosters?

Dani3679

I'm not an expert, but I don't think there are any laws regarding high back vs. no back boosters.  In my car Ryleigh has a high back that is actually detachable, but we keep it on.  In my mom and Quinton's cars she has always used a backless booster.  I don't think there is really much difference, since the whole point of the booster is to sit them up higher so the seat belt is not riding right along their neck.  I do feel a little safer with her in the high back since it has the head cushioning, but that's really the only difference I've noticed.

Klmorgan83

I can't find anything that says it makes a difference, just that they need to be in a booster until 4'9'' or 8 years old.

Lucky_N_Love

I know I have read research that they give them more support in the back/neck but I am having trouble finding anything right now. Found this video but it isn't super. Think of high back boosters or carseats as giving your child a head rest since they are too short to reach the ones in the car.

I agree with you if you have a seat that goes up to X pounds I would just keep  using it. Maybe I am naive about it because I don't have a 4 year old...