Daylight savings can be a stressful time of year for parents with little ones. The sudden change in time can disrupt already unpredictable sleep schedules and add chaos to your normal routines! However, with a bit of preparation and a few simple strategies, you can help your kids adjust to their new schedule with minimal disruption. Here are a few tips to help you and your little ones prepare for daylight savings time:
- Gradually adjust their sleep schedules. As daylight savings time approaches, start to shift your child's bedtime by 15-30 minutes each day. Instead of an immediate change, this will help them to gradually adjust to the new time and help prevent feelings of tiredness or crankiness.
- Try to keep their bedtime routine consistent. First step: putting on PJs. Next step: brushing teeth. Last step: Reading a bedtime story and saying "goodnight!" No matter what their nighttime routine consists of, it's important to continue following it consistently throughout the time change. Your toddlers will find comfort in the repetitive nature of their nightly routine by following the steps they're used to.
- Get your little ones plenty of sunlight. Exposure to sunlight throughout the day can help to regulate your kiddo's internal clock. Ultimately this will make it easier for them to adjust to their new sleep schedule. Getting to spend time outdoors taking in the sun's rays, especially in the morning, is great for this approach!
- Avoid overstimulation before bedtime. Activities like watching TV or playing video games before bed can be very overstimulating and make it tougher for your kiddo to fall asleep. Instead, try getting them to take a warm bath, listen to calming music, read a book or any other quiet time activities before bed. This will allow them to truly wind down before bedtime and have an easier time falling asleep.
- Practice patience. It may take your kids a few days to adjust to their new sleep schedule. That's okay! And perfectly normal. An hour difference may not seem like a lot, but it can be tough for children who need a certain amount of sleep every night. Be patient and consistent with their new routine and they will eventually get used to it.
With these tips in mind, you're now ready to conquer daylight savings time with your little ones! Consistency is key and with a bit of patience and persistence your toddlers will adjust to the new schedule in no time.