Spring is on its way, which means more sunshine, longer days, and… daylight saving time. While we might enjoy the extra daylight, losing an hour of sleep can throw off your baby’s sleep schedule—and no one wants an overtired, cranky baby. But don’t worry! With a little planning and patience, you can help your little one adjust smoothly.
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Why Does the Time Change Disrupt Baby Sleep?
Babies thrive on consistency, and even small schedule shifts can confuse their internal clocks. Moving the clock forward means bedtime suddenly feels an hour earlier, making it harder for your baby to fall asleep. It can also cause early morning wake-ups or difficulty settling for naps. The good news? Your baby will adjust, and these simple steps can make it easier.
Step-by-Step Plan for an Easy Transition
Ignore night one
Don’t stress about the change the night before. Put your baby to bed at their normal time, following their usual routine. The goal is to keep things as normal as possible so their body doesn’t feel a sudden, forced adjustment.
Set the Clocks Forward in the Morning
When you wake up on Sunday morning, set the clocks forward and start the day as usual. Avoid looking back at the “old time”—this will help you mentally commit to the new schedule and avoid second-guessing bedtime adjustments.
Split the Difference
If your baby is sensitive to schedule changes, take a gradual approach:
- On the first night (Saturday), put your baby to bed 15-30 minutes later than usual.
- Do the same for naps the next day, adjusting them by 15-30 minutes.
- After two days, shift to the full hour change.
This slow transition helps prevent overtiredness and gives your baby time to adapt.
Get Back to Your Regular Schedule
By Monday or Tuesday, return to your normal schedule based on the new time. Stick to your baby’s typical wake windows, nap times, and bedtime routine to reinforce the adjustment.
Be Patient
Some babies adjust within a day or two, while others need a full week to settle into the new time. Keep their sleep environment dark in the morning, expose them to plenty of daylight during the day, and stay consistent with bedtime routines.
The time change might be a temporary hurdle, but with a little patience and planning, your baby will be back on track in no time. And if sleep is still a struggle, I’m here to help!
