T is so eager to grow up (much to my dismay) and be a ‘big boy’ like his brother. Ever since our drive to Florida in December, he’s been upset that he had to be in a 5 point harness car seat when his older brother didn’t have to. Explaining to him the reason behind it when they just don’t understand or care for the reason, is like banging your head against the wall.
I decided to get creative and thought of a way to make it easier for him. So I made a game out of it. Every night before bed we would get T to step on the scale. We told him that when he got to the number 40 we would get him his own brand new seat. He loved the idea and was ecstatic!
So every night it became a ritual. Before the shower, he would undress (cause we all know we can’t weigh ourselves with clothes on!), and step on the scale.
This went on for what seemed like months. We started at 36 pounds. And ever so slowly the number increased…37, 38, 39…and finally, 40.
You should have seen his face when he saw it appear on the scale. “I did it! I’m 40 pounds!” Hallelujah.
Now, mom’s work begins…time to explore a new car seat!
I wanted to try something new this time. We have had a few different brands of car seats that we had tried over the years. And while they were safe, I wasn’t completely sold on them or the option of getting another of the same. After doing some research we learned that Diono is the leading manufacturer of children’s safety seats. Diono has such great innovative designs and safety features, so they were our first choice.
We wanted a booster seat that wasn’t backless but that could be once T got a little older. Something big enough that it would hold him properly, and also one that came with extra features, like adjustability and cup holders. And we found it, the Monterey XT.
T got to open the box upon delivery and check it out for himself first. And happily, he gave the thumbs up when we placed it in the car.
The Monterey XT is a full-featured, expandable high-back booster seat designed to fit growing children 18 to 54 kg (40 lb to 120 lb). The adjustable head rest and deep, aluminum reinforced sides are lined with energy absorbing EPS foam for side impact protection and the long seat bottom provides extra leg support.
There is an easy to grip and handle dial on the back that adjusts the width of the seat to fit a child’s shoulders and the headrest offers 11-positions to provide flexibility.
The booster is fixed into the car using UAS connectors and keeps the seat in position when not in use and installation is super easy and fast.
What I also love is the size of the seat; extra length for more comfortable leg support and has TWO retractable cup/snack holders. Because we all know our kids need a snack AND a drink next to them in the car!!
Key Features
Fits children 18 – 54 kg (40 lb to 120 lb) and 97 – 160 cm (38″ to 63″) in height
Extra-deep side walls are reinforced with aluminum and lined with EPS foam for superior side impact protection
Adjustable width: expandable seat back fits shoulders up to 50.8 cm (20”)
Adjustable height: 11 position headrest adjusts up to 16.5 cm (6.5″) with one hand
Can also be used as a backless booster
UAS system for secure installation (UAS use not required)
Angled seat bottom prevents submarining
Longer seat bottom for proper leg support
Retractable cup/snack holders fold out of the way when not needed
Packs flat for travel and storage
1 year warranty
I will say, I have fallen in love with this seat. But more importantly, so has T.
No more complaining about going in the car. No more complaining that he has a baby seat while his brothers is a big boy seat. Everyone is happy. And I can promise you will be too! Check out where you can buy yours here –> Where To Buy
What car seats have your tried and trusted?
xo
D
Disclosure: This post is sponsored by Diono. I received this product for free for the purposes of this post. As always, opinions on this blog are my own…
