What is the appropriate orientation for a child under 1 year old in a child passenger system?

The appropriate orientation for a child under 1 year old in a child passenger system is facing backward. This is because rear-facing car seats provide the best protection for infants and young children during a crash. In the event of a collision, the rear-facing position supports the child's head, neck, and spine, reducing the risk of injury.

Infants are particularly vulnerable because their bodies are still developing, and their heads are proportionally larger and heavier compared to their bodies. Facing backward helps to distribute crash forces more evenly across the entire body, limiting the movement of the head and preventing severe injuries.

The recommendation extends to keeping children in a rear-facing seat as long as they meet the height and weight requirements specified by the car seat manufacturer, often until they are at least 2 years old. This practice aligns with guidelines from safety organizations and helps ensure that children are secured safely while traveling.