Hi, L., (and all Ohio Mamas),
Here are the requirements: (I get all the info on them because I run a childcare facility)
0-12 months AND up to 20 lbs, rear facing seat.
1-4 years AND 21-65 lbs, rear facing OR forward facing with internal harness. (sidenote: I'm told that in Europe, they keep them rear facing until they're 4 or 5 years old)
4-8 years AND at least 40 lbs and up to 4ft 9in, booster seat.
8+ year AND at least 4ft 9 in, take the 5 step test to see if your child is ready for a seat belt alone.
5 Step Test:
Step 1: Does your child sit all the way back against the car's seat?
Step 2: Do your child's knees bend comfortably at the edge of the car's seat?
Step 3: Does the shoulder belt fit snugly across the chest, crossing the shoulder between the neck and arm?
Step 4: Is the lap belt as low as possible, snug over the hips or upper thighs?
Step 5: Can your child stay seated like this for the WHOLE RIDE?
If you answer YES to ALL FIVE questions, your child is ready for the seat belt alone. Otherwise, he/she still needs a booster.
Beginning October 7, 2009, Ohio law will require all children to ride in a car seat or booster seat until he/she is at least 8 years old OR 4'9 tall.
(Personally, I think it should be AND, rather than OR, but the law says OR. I still have my 10 year old in a booster, because he is only 4'5".)
Have a great day! J.