Booster Time! Help me get this right!

[Julia B]

My younger son just outgrew his Britax Marathon 70, so we're re-configuring everybody.

Kid 1: 9 1/2, 58 lbs, 54" (yes, he's that skinny!)
Kid 2: 6 1/2, 54 lbs, 48"

My car is a 2009 Pontiac Vibe. I have Kid 1 in a Graco TurboBooster HBB and Kid 2 in a Radian 65SL.

My husband's car is a 2007 Ford Focus. The stupid thing doesn't have head rests in the back seat. As of today they're both in TurboBooster HBBs.

Question 1: In the Radian, the shoulder straps are in their highest position and his shoulders are just a bit higher than the slots. The manual says that's okay. Is that okay? He likes the seat and it's easier for him to buckle/unbuckle himself than a booster. Can I leave him in it until he reaches the max height or weight?

Question 2: Kid 1 has been asking to use a backless booster. I liked the look of the Cosco Topsider and got one to try out, thinking it would make 3-across easier for the occasional extra friend (it does!) But it sure seems flimsy, compared to what I'm used to. We did a test drive and he sat nice and straight the whole time. It seems to fit well, hitting his clavicle without hitting his neck and crossing the tops of his thighs. I can get a picture in the morning. He's a reasonably mature 9.5 (going into 4th grade).

Question 3: Kid 1 has another couple of inches left in the TurboBooster with the back on, but can't ride in the Focus backless. What are my options? It looks like the Britax Parkway would work. He's not thrilled at the prospect, since most of his friends are using seatbelts (or even riding in the front), but he'll do as he's told.

Thanks so much!

 

[Hazelandlucy]

I am not a tech, but been on this forum a lot and have educated myself quite a bit, and will at least address the 9.5 yr old. I would say 100% yes on the backless at his height and age!

 

[Brianna]

1- yes, that is permitted. I've heard it can get uncomfortable though

2- a backless is fine. Pay attention to the seat belt routing instructions for the Topside though, it's different than other boosters.

3- I wonder if an Incognito would work. He only needs to have head support to eye level, and the incognito is very thin so he might not be boosted up above the vehicle seat back.

 

[Julia B]

His eyes are above the back of the seat without any booster at all. I had him do a 5-step test just to show him he's got at least a couple of leg-inches to go before he's done with boosters. I'm hoping to replace that car eventually, maybe we can do it soon enough to avoid the problem.