If you were to look at special needs seats, there are many options available. Nonetheless, I think it is important to keep in mind that if it is possible to continue using a ‘standard’ seat, rather than a special needs seat, it is the better option as I believe some special needs seats, although excellent in many instances do have to make ‘some compromise’ (for want of a better phrase) in terms of design between overall safety and the positioning/support needs of the passenger. This is not to say of course, they are not safe, if used correctly they are very safe.
When purchasing a seat for someone with special needs, the same mantra applies as to purchasing any seat; the best seat is the one that suits the needs of the child/occupant best, is compatible with the vehicle(s) in which it is being used and is able to be used correctly by the parents/carers.
One possible solution could be to use the “rough” half of a piece of self-adhesive Velcro on the buckle. This can help deter a child from pressing the release because of the “rough” nature of the material. If that doesn’t work I recommend you look at the following:
Recaro Reha
• Monza Reha Adaptive Car Seat – Booster with torso support harness for users up to 110lbs. Although harnessed, the seat ALWAYS requires use of the 3 point seatbelt as the internal harness is only for support.
E-Z-On Products
• 86Y Harness – This is not so much a special needs product specifically, as it fills more a niche gap for certain situations where a harness is required but a booster is not a viable option. It can however, if required, be used for such a situation if so suitable and can be quite a cost effective option.
• Vests – The E-Z-On vests come in various models which are used frequently in special needs transport. We currently use the 203 and 103Z vests. They can be used for occupants up to 168lbs and various accessories are available (although we have no experience of using any of the accessories). The 103Z vest closes behind the wearer and can be used for passengers who cannot understand that they should not unbuckle themselves while the vehicle is moving. In difference to the 103Z vest, the 203 vest opens and closes at the front and used in situations, where the occupant needs to be held upright if they are unable to manage it themselves.
(It is important to note that should you use the E-Z-On Vest, it is a wise idea to carry an emergency seatbelt cutter (
as seen here) in the vehicle located in a position where it can be accessed quickly and easily. In the event of crash, you may well need to exit the vehicle quickly and cutting through the webbing safely is often the best solution.)
There are plenty of experts here on the forum who are trained in special needs seating who can offer far better advice and knowledge but I hope this helps.