What is the minimum age at which children are recommended to be rear-facing in a car seat?

The minimum recommended age for children to be in a rear-facing car seat is 2 years old. This recommendation is based on extensive safety research which shows that children are significantly safer in a rear-facing position for as long as possible, up to the age of 2 or beyond, because their necks and spines are still developing. In a collision, a rear-facing car seat cradles the child's head, neck, and spine, reducing the risk of serious injuries.

Some guidelines suggest keeping children rear-facing until they reach the upper weight or height limit of their car seat, which can often be well beyond the age of 2. Placing a child in a forward-facing position too soon can increase the risk of injury during accidents, highlighting the importance of following these age recommendations for maximum safety.