7 Tips for Littles to End Daylight Savings Time: SLEEP

Moms and dads… get set for a time change! Daylight Savings Time ends on November 4. A 60-minute swing in the schedule can make a big difference in a child’s world.

The rule of thumb for moving the clock for Daylight Saving Time is: SPRING- spring ahead, FALL- fall back. Start a week ahead of the change by modifying your child’s bedtime. Move the schedule back 5-10 minutes each evening to accommodate the upcoming hour change.

The transition in the hours of sunlight can take a bit of adjusting. It’s helpful to keep in mind how much sleep your child actually needs. Generally speaking, babies need 14-15 hours of sleep per day, with sleep patterns beginning to be established at 4-5 months. Toddlers need 12-14 hours of sleep per night with one nap during the day. Work the family schedule around naptime.

Ten to twelve hours of sleep are recommended for preschoolers. As with many aspects of parenting, consistency helps. Determine a bedtime and try to stick to it. Elementary school age children should be getting 10-11 hours a night. Your child’s internal clock will develop a pattern. Starting early for the Daylight Savings Time switch makes the transition easier for all ages.

7 Tried and True Tips for Bedtime Transitions for Daylight Savings Time

1. Move the schedule back 5-10 minutes each evening the weeks prior to Daylight Savings Time ending on November 4.
2. Develop a consistent routine and bedtime. (Jammies on, teeth brushed, reading time, prayers, and kisses.)
3. Include a time for quiet activities 30 minutes before bedtime to set the stage for bedtime.
4. Make your child’s bedroom a quiet, cozy place for sleep.
5. Use the bed only for sleeping. Do not put a TV or computer in your child’s bedroom.
6. Limit food and drink before bedtime.
7. Play soft music or provide white noise to mask other household noise.

Tuck your little one in and kiss him goodnight. Tell him you’ll see him when the sun comes up, setting the expectation that he stays in bed until morning.

In peace I will lie down and sleep, for you alone, LORD, make me dwell in safety.
Psalm 4:8

© 2018 Becky Danielson. All rights reserved.

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