Installing car seats can be a daunting task for any parent, but when you’re dealing with multiple children, it becomes a strategic puzzle. As a mom of four, I’m sharing my recent car seat configuration journey in our Ford Expedition, transitioning from the days of three-across in the second row to embracing the third row. This setup is designed to maximize space, accessibility, and most importantly, safety for all my kids.
Starting in the third row, driver’s side, we’ve installed the Graco SlimFit 3LX for my son George. This car seat is a lifesaver, especially in vehicles like the Expedition with non-removable headrests. Its slim design is perfect for fitting multiple seats, and it’s incredibly accommodating for taller kids who quickly outgrow other forward-facing options. George has plenty of room and is comfortable, which is a win for everyone on longer drives.
Moving across the third row to the passenger side, we installed the Clek Foonf for my daughter Hattie. I love the Clek Foonf for its safety features and robust build as a forward-facing seat. However, it’s worth noting that it can be more challenging to install due to its weight and rigid LATCH system. Fortunately, the Ford Expedition has LATCH anchors in the third row, which isn’t always the case in other vehicles. Without these lower anchors, placing Hattie in the third row might not have been possible, potentially forcing a complete rethink of our car seat arrangement.
With the third row set up for forward-facing kids, we turned our attention to the second row for the younger ones in rear-facing seats. For my son Fred, we chose the Evenflo Revolve 360 Slim, a rotating car seat that has quickly become a favorite. Its rotation feature makes getting Fred in and out of the car so much easier. Since he’s still within the weight limits for LATCH installation, we used the lower anchors to securely install it on the driver’s side outboard seat in the second row. Always remember to check your car seat manual for weight limits and proper installation methods.
Finally, for our newest addition, Baby #4, we’ll be installing the Nuna Pipa in the second-row middle seat closer to her arrival. It’s generally recommended not to install car seats too far in advance to avoid needing to replace them in case of a car accident before the baby arrives. The middle seat is our chosen spot to keep the passenger-side outboard seat in the second row free for easy access to the third row. Plus, it leaves a seat available for me to sit in the back with the baby when needed.
Embracing the Third Row for Our Growing Family
While there was a certain identity tied to making three car seats fit across the second row – a kind of “Car Mom” badge of honor – I’m genuinely excited about this new chapter with the third row in use. It’s a significant shift for our family dynamic, but having this car seat configuration sorted out is a huge relief. Now we have time to adjust and enjoy the increased space and accessibility this setup provides.
If you’re navigating the world of multiple kids and car seats, what questions do you have about setting up your vehicle? Share them in the comments below! And for more family car tips and tricks, be sure to explore my latest posts.
