Moms everywhere know that Daylight Savings Time can shake up even the best bedtime routines, especially with young children. As we prepare to “fall back” and gain an extra hour of sleep, adjusting to the time change can still be challenging for kids whose internal clocks don’t reset with the change. Here are some helpful tips to make the transition smoother for you and your little ones, so everyone can adjust without too much fuss.
Start adjusting your child’s bedtime by 10-15 minutes each night in the days leading up to the time change. By doing this, their bodies will slowly adapt to the earlier bedtime or wake-up time. This gradual shift helps prevent major disruptions in their sleep pattern.
Maintaining consistency is crucial when dealing with the time change. Stick to your family’s regular bedtime routines—whether that includes bath time, storytime, or quiet activities. A familiar routine will help your child feel secure and understand that it’s still time to wind down, even if the clocks say otherwise.
Natural daylight is a great way to help reset your child’s internal clock. Make sure to get outside in the morning, soaking in the early sunlight. This exposure to daylight will help your child’s body adjust to the new schedule by reinforcing the time for wakefulness.
If your child still naps during the day, try to keep their nap schedule as consistent as possible. Stretch their wake times gently if needed, but don’t force them to stay awake for too long. Keeping nap times in line with the new schedule will help balance the time change without making your child overtired.
If bedtime or wake-up time seems difficult during the first few days, remember that it’s completely normal. Be patient and flexible—kids will typically adjust within a week or so. The key is to avoid stress and stay positive, even if there are bumps in the road.
With these tips, you can help your child adjust to Daylight Savings Time smoothly, allowing for a stress-free transition for your family. And hey, don’t forget to enjoy that extra hour of sleep!
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Amber Bowie
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