Changing the Clock.. Again?! How to Survive the Beginning of DST

Daylight Savings is here! It’s every parent’s favorite time of the year, bringing sleep disruption and crankiness right along with it! Here are my top tips to make the transition as smooth and seamless as possible.

1) Ignore It On Night 1

Your best bet on Night 1? Pretend DST (Daylight Savings Time) doesn’t exist! Don’t set the clocks forward yet, and put your little one to bed at the same time as always. It will make for an easier transition in the long run.

2) Set Clocks Forward In the Morning

Don’t worry too much if your little one wakes up ‘late’ because the time has changed. Get them up and go about your day as usual. Set your clocks forward when you’re up for the day.

3) Split the Difference

Once you’ve set the clock forward, move naptimes and bedtime back by half an hour. If your little one’s bedtime was 7:00pm before DST, move it to 7:30pm. Do this for the first 4 days to help your child gradually adapt to the time change.

4) Back to the Regular Schedule

On night 5, go back to your regularly-scheduled naptimes and bedtime. By now, your little one should be used to the time change, so it’s time to get back on track with your usual sleep routine.

5) Be Patient

No matter how you prepare, chances are for early wake-ups and nighttime crankiness as your body clocks adjust. Be patient and consistent. Chances are, you’ll all adapt within a week.

Sweet Dreams,

Faigy