How to prepare your baby for daylight saving
There are simple steps you can take to minimise the effect daylight saving will have on your little one.
Gradually reset their body clock
Start shifting your child’s bedtime and wake-up time by 10 minutes every couple of days in the week prior to the clock change. That way, when daylight saving starts, their bedtime is already at the ‘new’ time. They should also wake up at an appropriate time too.
For example, when daylight saving starts (clocks go forward by an hour), if your baby's bedtime is usually 7pm, on the Tuesday before the clocks change, put your child to sleep at 6:50pm. On Wednesday put them to sleep at 6:40pm. On Thursday, at 6:30pm, on Friday at 6:20pm, on Saturday at 6:10pm, then on Sunday put them to sleep at the ‘new’ 7pm.
When daylight savings ends (the clocks go back an hour), if your baby’s bedtime is usually 7pm, on the Tuesday before the clocks change, put your child to sleep at 7:10pm. On Wednesday, put them to sleep at 7:20pm. On Thursday at 7:30pm, on Friday at 7:40pm, on Saturday at 7:50pm, and finally, on Sunday put them to sleep at the 'new' 7pm.
Keep their sleep space calm
It might be difficult for your child to sleep when it’s still light outside. Keep your little one’s room as dark as possible to recreate bedtime conditions. Blackout blinds or curtains will help to achieve this. Always follow safe sleep guidelines.
Stick to a consistent routine
A consistent bedtime routine will help to establish good sleep habits for years to come. This might look like a bath, baby massage, reading a book, or singing a lullaby. Winding down before bed will prevent your child from becoming too energetic before it’s time to sleep. Find what works for you and your family.
Head out into the sunshine
If you can, head out into the daylight for a walk. This is especially beneficial in the morning or late afternoon. The sun exposure will help to rest your baby’s body clock and will in turn, help them to regulate their sleep pattern again. Always use sun safety guidelines.
Don’t neglect their naps
Don’t be afraid of naps. Sticking to their usual naptime routine will help to maintain structure. Just ensure the naps are not too long and not too close to their bedtime.
