It’s that time of year again–when sleep coach after sleep coach shares social media and blog posts about how to survive the dreaded time change.
So you might be surprised to learn that I don’t really plan ahead when it comes to daylight savings.
Whether we’re falling back or springing forward, I tend to let the cards fall where they may and adjust accordingly.
So keep reading to learn why this sleep consultant doesn’t plan ahead for the time change!
Time Change Basics
Daylight Savings Time ends in the fall, when we set our clocks back (or “fall back”) one hour.
This means that the sun will rise and set an hour earlier.
This also means that your little one will want to go to bed earlier (and will want to wake up earlier, too.)
Daylight Savings time begins in the spring, when we set our clocks ahead (or “spring forward”) one hour.
This means the sun will rise and set an hour later.
This also means that your little one will want to stay up later (and wake up later, too.)
How I Handle the Time Changes
For both spring and fall time changes, I typically do not plan ahead; this is 100 percent a preference, as each method has its pros and cons.
Many moms choose to slowly shift their child’s routine forward or back in 10-15 minute increments about a week before the time change. This means their little ones will be “on schedule” right after the time change.
While this method works for some, I have always chosen to keep wake times consistent and let it sort itself out. This has always been the easier option for me, as I tend to let the daylight savings sneak up on me!
How does this work? Let’s use the fall time change in this example.
If your baby typically wakes at 7 but is awake at 6 the morning of the time change, avoid rushing into the room, wait a few minutes–adding on more time as the week progresses and keeping the rest of their schedule the same.
Before long, your family will adjust to the new schedule just fine.
Related: 3 Reasons Your Baby is Waking Too Early (And What To Do About It)
Wrapping Up
Daylight Savings Time (regardless of the season) can be challenging, but remember: you will get through it! Just be consistent and patient.
Here are a few things to keep in mind:
- Fall back in November
- Spring forward in March
- You can slowly adjust your child’s schedule ahead of the time change, or
- You can do nothing, keep wake times consistent, and let their routines adjust on their own
Which method will you choose this fall? Let me know in the comments!
And if your child isn’t sleeping regardless of the season, let me help! Click here to schedule your consultation with a certified pediatric sleep consultant–yours truly!
