Navigating Daylight Savings - The Spring Series (Spring Forward)

Spring and summer are approaching (not that the weather is saying so!), and with it will bring longer and hopefully warmer days. As we move into spring, we will be setting our clocks FORWARD one hour. Unlike the end of daylight savings (end of Autumn), this clock change is a welcome one for parents. Rather than having to battle with early morning wakes while our kiddies adjust, we technically get a sleep in!

There are a few ways to approach this time change - you can be proactive, reactive or just wing it. When the clock is going forward rather than back, a lot of people choose the REACTIVE/WING IT option as they quite enjoy a ‘sleep in’! However if you already need to be out of the house early for work, daycare or other commitments and wish to make this change more gradual, you may like to be PROACTIVE in this change.

Check out my tips below for managing your child’s sleep from any direction. To make the transition easier for your little one, try adjusting their sleep schedule in small 15-minute increments every few days. And don’t forget to adjust other daily activities (naps, meal times) to support their circadian rhythm (more below).

PROACTIVE SLEEP SOLUTIONS (based on a 9am-7pm schedule - 2 naps)

REACTIVE SLEEP SOLUTIONS (based on a 9am-7pm schedule - 2 naps)

Understanding the WHY:

Our internal biological clock, or circadian rhythm, is influenced by three main factors: light, food, and social interaction. To support your child through the time change, it's important to move all three factors together.

During the times you want your child to be awake provide lots of light, food and social interaction. During the times you would like them to be sleeping provide minimal light, food & social interaction. Exposing your child to natural sunlight in the morning and throughout the day can help their body clock adjust to the new time. And dimming the lights in your home at least an hour before bedtime can help prepare your child for sleep.

How long will it take my baby to adjust?

All children respond differently to changes. It can take between 1-3 weeks to fully adjust, so be patient with your little one.

What about if my child doesn't nap anymore?

Great news – they'll be less sensitive to the time change. Just follow the suggested bedtime and wake-up time from the diagrams above. If you use a sleep trainer clock, you can gradually adjust the settings to align with the new schedule.

With these tips in mind, hopefully, you and your children enjoy the longer days, hopefully some beautiful weather and all the fun it brings with minimal disruption to your sleep routine. If you're still struggling, don't hesitate to reach out for personalised support and guidance.

Abby x

Baby Sleep Consultant NZ. Healthy Sleep Habits Begin Here.