Daylight Saving ends this weekend, and it got me thinking … I’ve been parenting for over 8 years now and I know so much more than what I used to know. So I thought I’d share with you what’s worked for me with getting my kids to adjust to daylight saving (ending or beginning).
When my kids were babies, I used to stress out SO MUCH when daylight saving rolled around. I talked to my Mum about this (I’m one of 4 kids), and she told me that the trick to Daylight Saving is “not to worry”.
She said “just keep doing what you’re doing and your kids will fall into their normal routine without even realising it“
Of course, I didn’t believe her, and the first couple of times, I majorly panicked. I feel like now, 8 years into parenting, I have this Daylight Savings thing down-pat.
These are the FIVE tricks to dealing with Daylight Savings (for kids who don’t understand the concept of time haha):
1. DON’T WORRY
Easier said than done, I KNOW! Especially if you have a child 18 months or younger, when they’re still forming sleeping habits.
2. ROUTINE
Whatever your routine / schedule was before, follow it. TO THE LETTER. Kids don’t have any concept of time, other than what you tell them. So don’t change their routine at all.
Some people like to adjust their child’s sleep routine the week leading up to daylight saving beginning / ending. In my opinion this isn’t necessary but you should do whatever suits you.
3. SLEEP CLOCKS
Sleep clocks are great outside of the whole “Daylight Savings” thing. However, having one means you can adjust the time they are supposed to get up, and hopefully they stay in their rooms. We have two Gro-Clocks, and they are AMAZING. You can read my Gro-Clock review here.
4. GIVE IT TIME
All good things take time – even more so with getting your kids back to their normal wake up / sleep time. I find it takes at least a week for them to get back on track.
5. KEEP AN OPEN MIND
Remember, not everyone is the same, and not a truer thing could be said about a baby / child. What works for me, might not work for you. So listen to what other people have done, and try it however feels most comfortable for you and your family.
I find the whole “go with the flow” approach the best, but if you want to try and adjust their routine prior to Daylight Savings, then that’s completely up to you.
As I said above, it will not happen straight away but they will get back to it.
I think the worst is when they’re an actual baby. Because you’ve probably just gotten them into some kind of routine. Honest – don’t worry.
You’ll get back to it.
What have you done in the past? Or what do you plan on doing?
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