What sort of seat is appropriate for forward-facing?

There are three types of safety seats that can be used forward-facing: the convertible seat, the combination seat, and the forward-facing only seat.

Convertible Seats: Termed convertible, this seat converts from rear-facing to forward-facing. Most seats accomodate children from 20-40 pounds, although several newer models go to 65 pounds forward-facing. Due to the design of the seats, many children become too tall for these seats (their shoulders become even with the top shoulder harness slot) long before reaching 40 pounds and being ready for a booster seat. Selecting a seat with a tall top shoulder strap slot will allow the seat to last longer.

Two convertible seats, placed side by side.

Combination Seats: These are foward-facing seats with a 5 point harness that starts at 20-30 pounds and goes to 40-65 pounds. By removing the 5 point harness, you can transform this seat into a booster seat, which is usually appropriate for children up to 80-100 pounds. When selecting a combination seat, make sure that the top shoulder strap slot is going to be high enough for your child to grow with the seat (on many the top slot is no taller than on the convertible seat, so be aware!). Also make sure that when used as a booster seat, the shoulder belt will touch your child's shoulder and chest, and that the lap belt will touch the top of his thighs and not his abdomen. Finally, make sure that if your child leans forward, the belt guide does not prevent the shoulder belt from retracting properly to take out the slack.

Forward-Facing Only: These seats fit children at least 1 year old and at least 20-22 pounds. They are particularly useful for children with special needs who need the support of a 5-point harness longer than most children do. They are also useful when an older child must ride in a position with a lap-belt only.