My oldest also absolutely hated the car seat no matter what we did. It's a judgement call. It's good to know the info that they are safer to stay rear facing for as long as possible, but there are other considerations as well. I figured it wasn't healthy for my baby to be red faced and screaming every car ride, so we transitioned her to forward facing at two. She's been happy in the car every since. You're a great mom for being so thoughtful about you decisions and trying to do the best thing for your child! Best of luck!
@Kassidi yes we’ve tried everything!! In ca it’s just age OR when they reach the weight limit
We turned our son forward at 21 months with approval of our pediatrician because he met the height and weight limit. It made driving much more enjoyable and he loves it.
There is nothing in this world that would make me turn my kid before she maxes out the rear facing limits on her seat (50lbs/48 inches). I would try literally anything to make sure that happens - any kind of entertainment/toys/screen if needed (we just keep some toys in the car). We even tinted the windows of our cars because the sun hurts her eyes coming from the back of our vehicles. Obviously, make your own decision, but it's just not worth the risk to us: https://www.instagram.com/reel/DEIFTvVRlPb/?igsh=MWJocnYxendsNWplaw==
My son hated the car as he got bigger and bigger and we flipped him to forward facing on his second birthday. Fits about the car disappeared. I expect to do the same with our daughter. They’re both really big kids so I feel better about it.
We turned our daughter forward facing this weekend. She also has met the height and weight requirement. Do whatever works for your family and your little one :)
My daughter also hated the car sit since she was born. When she reached the weight limit, I turned her car seat. Things are better now. Always praying God that everything goes well when I drive. It's your call. Anyways, whatever your decision will be, you're doing a great job!
@JL this is my feeling as well. Enough videos showing the impact spooked me enough to keep him turned around
We are considering flipping soon! Our son turns 2 on May 5th & is cresting the weight limit by just a few pounds & closing in on the height anyway. He’s pretty good in the car but it is getting so cramped back there, I know safety is key, but we plan on talking to our pediatrician at his 2y appt before we make the switch!
I honestly turned my baby around after her first birthday but in my defense we live in a hot state and the air wouldn’t hit her during car rides so it was the best thing that worked out for the both of us.
I saw someone on here say that turning their child forward helped them like the car. Have you tried a mirror? Also it’s worth noting, your child is supposed to be the maximum weight and height limit AND be 2 years old. It’s not just an age thing