Sleep consultant Alanna McGinn of GNSleepSite reveals the easy ways you can adjust your baby's sleep schedule so spring forward is less disruptive for your family ⏰
On March 13th at 3 a.m., we move our clocks forward one hour. Mornings begin to get brighter and evenings lighter , and parents ofSo what do we need to do to prepare ourfor daylight saving time? Luckily it isn’t as disruptive as when we turn the clocks back in the fall, so most kids adjust easily. Begin by waking little ones at the usual time on Sunday morning and following your regular daily routine. Continue with the normal nap and bedtimes, and kids should be on track within a week or so.
If you’re concerned about your child transitioning to the new time because he’s a sensitive sleeper, you can introduce the change gradually. If his typical wake time is 6:30 a.m. move it to 6:00 a.m. a few days before the actual change. This way once the clocks spring forward he’ll already be prepped for the new time.
You can go as far as moving your baby’s entire schedule an hour ahead, including meal times and nap times, but for most kids this isn’t necessary. The key change, whenever you’re going through any kind of sleep transition, is bedtime. It may have to be slightly earlier than usual to make up for any lost sleep while your child adjusts.
The sun will be shining earlier in the morning as the month goes on and soon bedtime will be brighter as well. It’s important to make sure your child’s bedroom isKeep those early sunrises banished from his room and make bedtime nice and dark, even if it’s still light out.You can set it to your desired sleep and wake times, making it easier for him to understand and follow the schedule.
And don’t forget to check your smoke detectors! Spring forward is a great time to check/replace the batteries.Subscribe to Today's Parent's daily newsletter for our best parenting news, tips, essays and recipes.Yes, I would like to receive the daily newsletter. I understand I can unsubscribe at any time.