On 6th October 2024, the clocks will spring forward by one hour, giving us more daylight in the evenings but it means we lose an hour of sleep!
While it may not sound like much, that 'lost' hour of sleep has the potential to mess with your little one's sleep. But don't worry, I'm here to make it easier.
Does Daylight Savings Disrupt My Baby’s Sleep?
While it may not sound like much, for your baby’s sleep, that lost hour can feel like a bit of a curveball. A lot of mums I speak to feel nervous as the date creeps closer — and I get it! We don’t need any help feeling derailed, especially after just getting through the winter bugs and finally sleeping again, right?
Why? It’s because our internal body clocks don't automatically sync with the new time on the clock. This misalignment can leave us all feeling a bit tired at all the wrong times.
How Long Does It Take for Your Baby to Adjust to Daylight Savings?
Now, the burning question: "How long will it take for my baby to adjust?" It's impossible to predict how your baby will cope. Most kids I see adjust within 2 to 7 days. The key to making it quicker? Give baby lots of natural sunlight in the morning, adjust their food onto their new routine, not just their sleep and keep their room dark for all sleep. I won't bore you with the science behind it, but after 20+ years of working night shifts in the labour ward, I can assure you it will help get back on track.
Preparing for the Change:
📆 It's always a good idea to plan ahead. Have a read of the plan and pick the option best suited to you and your baby.
1 - PROACTIVE
If you’re someone who loves a plan and currently has a great nap schedule (I see you, routine-lovers!), being proactive is a great option. Every second day, shift their sleep and wake times by 15 minutes. After eight days, your baby’s schedule will perfectly match the new time without them even realising it!
This is perfect for routine-loving mums, super-sensitive bubs, or anyone who’s just got sleep on track and doesn’t want to see it fall apart.
For example, if your baby usually wakes at 7:00 AM, shift it to 6:45 AM for two days, then 6:30 AM, and so on. By the time the clocks change, they’ll be ready for the new time — no drama, no stress. This method gives you control and keeps things consistent, especially if your baby thrives on routine.
2 - REACTIVE
Now, if you’re more of a ‘wait and see’ mum and prefer to deal with changes as they come (no judgement here!), you can wait until after the clocks change to make any necessary adjustment. When the clocks go back, things might feel a little off for a day or two, but babies are resilient and usually bounce back within a week. Slowly nudge their routine back into place after the clocks have changed.
This is great for the ‘every day is different’ mums or adaptable, chill babies. Heck, if sleep has gone to 💩, this might be a good option for you — it can’t get worse, right?
EITHER WAY, EVERYTHING IS EASIER WITH A PLAN
No matter how you tackle it, you’ve got the plan and tips to make it easier. You know your baby best so roll with it and know I’m right there in the thick of it with two of my own kids! I will see you on the other side!.
It’s natural to be a little nervous about the clock change. If you’re feeling overwhelmed or unsure how to manage your baby’s sleep, I’m here to help. Book a call, and we’ll walk through your current routine and put together a plan that works for your family. Your baby can sleep well, you just need the right advice. .
Jump on a free call and let's chat about a consultation and the transformation it could make for your family.
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