How to help your child "spring forward" to Daylight Savings Time

Well, folks, it’s that time of year again, and aside from the fact that our clocks are changing (super annoying if you have kids), it means spring is almost here and brighter days lay ahead YAY for that!

On March 15th, 2021 at 2:00 a.m. our clocks will SPRING forward, that said, this time of year, I get TONS of questions about how to handle the time change with wee ones.

I want you to consider that your child will likely be going to bed and waking up during daylight hours in just a few weeks from now, so make sure those black-out blinds or curtains are in full swing before then. Rule of thumb; you should barely be able to see your hand in front of your face during the day in your child’s room with the curtains closed.

Kids' sleep can be a bit wonky while they adjust to the extra light around sleepy times so try to block that light out as best you can.

You have worked too hard to help your little ones sleep in, don’t let the sun ruin it for everyone! See blackout chart below your child’s room should at least be a 9/10.

Now that we have room darkness sorted out let’s jump into it.

Here are a few options for easing your little one in daylight savings.

Option # 1:

If your child is over 18 months, immediately change the clocks to the new time. Toddlers and young children are likelier to manage jumping right into the new time.

Example: If your little one's bedtime was 7:00 p.m. after you move the clock forward to 8:00 pm keep the bedtime at 7:00 p.m., same goes for naps; if your child’s nap is usually at 12: p.m., it will remain at 12:00 p.m. on the new time.

Allow your child to sleep a little longer than usual if you were previously capping the nap.

Option # 2:

For babes under 18 months, “Split-the-difference” and put your child to bed at 7:30 p.m. (the new time) for three days and then shift back to your normal 7:00 p.m. Same goes for naps; if your child’s regular nap is at 9 a.m. adjust to 9:30 for a few days while transitioning.

Example: Day 1-3 after the time change, offer bedtime at 7:30 p.m (6:30 p.m. old-time) then on day 4 and after, offer bedtime at 7:00 p.m. (new time).

Option # 3:

Do nothing and have your kiddos on a different summer schedule than winter.

You may be in for an early wake-up for a few days; however, this will adjust over a few days or maybe a week; stay consistent, do not get your little one up before 6:00 a.m., and remember total room darkness is key. Good luck!

GUYLAINE PERRON - NIGHTY NIGHT SLEEP CONSULTING