From the first journey your newborn makes, you're responsible for ensuring its safety. Get it right, and ferrying kids about may be just a bit less stressful?

CHILD SEATS are available to fit children up to the age of about 10-11 - the child's size and weight determine the size and type of seat required. Once a child weighs about 20kg, a standard seat belt can be used - but only if it fits correctly at lap and chest.

There are two types of child seat. 'First stage' or 'infant carriers' are for the smallest babies. Strap the baby into the carrier, then you can attach/detach seat and baby and carry the ensemble about. They're suitable for babies up to about 10kg, after which you need a 'second-stage' seat. This stays attached to the car and you strap the child in.

The two smallest sizes of child seat (there are five sizes) are rear-facing. They can be fitted to front or rear seats, but if a front passenger airbag is fitted this must be deactivated by your dealer.

With dozens of child car seats available, seek expert advice. Halfords service centres fit seats, and a dealer for your make should be able to provide compatible seats.