The Simple Way to Adjust to Daylight Savings
Mar 05, 2024
The Daylight Savings tips for babies are flooding my social media. And most of them are saying to do one of two things:
- Gradually shift your baby’s schedule over a period of days.
- Go cold turkey and just wake up at the new time.
Whatever happens, I think it’s safe to say that Daylight Savings can be rough on everyone, and especially babies. Depending on your child’s temperament and internal body clock, they will need time to settle into the time change.
Another challenge is the logistics of the days leading up to Daylight Savings. With work, personal obligations, and my children’s routine and activities, thinking about “preparing” for Daylight Savings just adds to my mental load.
As a New York City mom of 3 (and a pup), I know I’m in good company. More than half of parents in this city (both married and single) are working, which adds to the complexity of being able to shift a family’s schedule before the time change.
IDEA
Adjust your expectations of your child after Daylight Savings so you can be empathetic and flexible.
Even if you take the gradual approach to shifting your child’s schedule, they may still be cranky, tired, or hungry at irregular times. Consider your expectations, schedule, and what you’re asking them those first days after the time change. Yes, I too would want to enjoy the warmer weather and stay out late at the park. . . but if we can anticipate our child’s needs, we can be more proactive in helping them stay regulated – not dysregulated.
RESOURCE
The Sleep Lady offers practical tips to help with this time change.
TIP
I have learned to enjoy my Saturday leading up to the change. When my kids were babies, I often felt stressed out and pressured to take a gradual approach. No matter what, the first few days after Daylight Savings were rough and it just took time to adjust.
What has helped me most during our transition to the new time is maintaining our typical routine and schedule. This ensures predictability and a well-rested family. Going into the time change sleep deprived can make things worse, so I recommend being consisting with those naps and bedtime routines in the days leading up.