On the 30th March, clocks will move forward an hour, so 5am will become 6am. This is also the clock change that is useful if you have an early riser as it will automatically bring their morning forward.
Before we look at the tips – there is no need to do anything if you are happy to go with the flow! It is likely that their timings will return to normal within a few days, especially if you can make the most of the warmer weather and have plenty of time outside. If you would rather be a bit more prepared, read on.
The gradual approach
This is useful for babies, or children who are sensitive to change.
On Sunday, adjust your little ones naptime and/or bedtime back by 15 minutes each day. For example if their bedtime is normally 7pm then move bedtime 15 minutes earlier each night until you reach their normal time. So, on Sunday night you would put them down at 7.45pm (‘new springtime’), then 7.30pm etc… by the fourth night you should be back to their ‘normal’ time of 7pm.
Split the difference
For toddlers on one nap and children who no longer need a nap, split the difference between the old and new time.
On Sunday 30th March, put your napping toddler down 30 minutes earlier for their nap and bedtime. For example, if they nap at 12.30pm, put them down for their nap at 1pm. Use this for three days to help them adjust and then pop them down at the normal time. For independent sleepers, they may take a bit longer to settle, but that is ok!
For those no longer napping, just adjust bedtime.
Do nothing!
If you have an early riser at the moment, the change in the clocks can be the thing you were waiting for to get their mornings back on track – and there is no need to do anything! If you have a newborn, again,
no need to do anything.
Did you know that natural daylight can wake us up? If you have noticed your children’s mornings getting earlier, it might be worth investing in a blackout blind as the daylight can trick your body into thinking it is daytime. It can also help them go to sleep for naps and bedtime when it is light outside.
Remember that every child is different, so find what works best for your family and be flexible in your approach. With a little bit of planning and consistency, you can help your little one settle into the new schedule smoothly. Good luck and enjoy the lighter evenings ahead of us!
Check out Lucy’s blog at chelmsfordandcolchester.littledreamsconsulting.com for even more tips on great sleeping environments.
