The Texas Department of Public Safety has created an excellent website which presents guidelines for child passenger saftety:
Texas DPS Carseat Information
This simplification has been long overdue. Here are important points to remember from these guidelines. First, NEVER turn forward-facing before child meets all three requirements (age, height, and weight) set by safety seat manufacturer for forward-facing. Second, continue to use a booster seat until the adult lap/shoulder safety belt fits them properly.
The Car Seat Lady has an excellent 5 step test to determine when your child is able to ride without a booster seat:
http://thecarseatlady.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/screen-shot-2014-03-08-at-2-17-42-pm.png
Please call the office and speak with the nurses if you have any questions. Also, continue to send your questions to askdocyoung@gmail.com
Dr. Young