Then once the child has reached the age and weight appropriate the convertible car seat then can be turned around to be forward facing up to about 65-70 pounds, which depends on the seats weight capacity.  If you choose to you can purchase a high capacity convertible seat that will allow your child to stay in a 5 point harness through the toddler years.  

Some features to look for on a convertible seat are a rear facing recline option so you can adjust the seat to fit your car, tether and LATCH connectors or belt lock offs if your car does not have LATCH capability, energy absorbing foam and side impact crash safety ratings, five point harness with harness adjuster, weight and height capacity, and the adjustment options to help extend the life of the seat to fit your toddler appropriately.

Some of the top convertible car seat makers are Britax, Recaro, Graco, Evenflo, and Diono. It is important to make sure the seat with fit your car correctly and to install the seat according to manufacturer’s directions. It is also recommended to have the seat inspected by a certified child passenger safety technician or by going to inspection station.