How to Help Your Child Adjust to Daylight Saving Time

Ah, Daylight Saving Time—that magical weekend in March when the clocks “spring forward” and we get those glorious longer days filled with more sunlight. It sounds like a win, right? More time for outdoor play, family dinners, and a little extra sunshine. But we also lose a precious hour of sleep and for small children, this transition isn’t always easy. 

Why Daylight Savings Time Messes With Your Kids (and Your Sanity)

Let’s be real: when the time changes, our kiddos don’t exactly get the memo. Their internal clocks? Totally confused. And while we might be able to adult our way through the lost hour of sleep (with a double shot of espresso), our little ones aren’t quite so flexible. Their bodies are still stuck in the old routine, and you’re stuck trying to make sense of it all.

That lost hour of sleep can throw off their natural sleep-wake cycle, leading to cranky moods, short naps, and a lot of meltdowns. The good news? You don’t have to give in to the chaos. With a few tricks up your sleeve, you can help your child adjust to daylight savings time without losing your mind.

At Tiny People University, we understand how tricky these transitions can be, especially for younger children. Our dedicated staff is always ready to provide a caring, structured environment that can help your child adjust to changes like Daylight Saving Time. 

5 Tips to Help Your Child Spring Forward During Daylight Savings

Time Change Tip #1 – Start Adjusting Bedtime Early (Yes, Really)

The key to surviving the time change? A little prep work before it hits. About a week before the time change, start shifting your child’s bedtime by 10-15 minutes earlier every couple of days. This gradual change gives their body a chance to adjust without it feeling like a sudden shock to the system. By the time the big day arrives, they’ll be (hopefully) sleeping through the night without the usual “but MOM! I’m not sleepy!” protest.

Pro tip: This also gives you a chance to adjust their wake-up time. Shifting both bedtime and wake-up time will help keep their routines on track.

Time Change Tip #2 – Stick to Routines

Kids thrive on routines, and when their schedule is disrupted, it can feel like their world is upside down and inside out. During the time change, try to stick to your usual routines as much as possible. The trick is to stay consistent with the order of things you do before bedtime and naps—not the clock time. So if your child’s routine includes a bath, reading time, and then cuddles, keep doing those steps in the same order, even if the actual time shifts a little. This consistency signals to their brain that it’s time to wind down, which helps them feel secure and ready for sleep, no matter what the clock says. Keeping the rhythm of their routine intact is key for helping their body and mind know it’s time for rest, even if their internal clock is still catching up.

Pro tip: It’s also important to continue your regular activities during the day, like dropping your little one off for a day filled with fun and learning at Tiny People University, just as you normally would. Keeping these familiar patterns consistent, even when the timing feels off, helps your child stay grounded and feel like things are still in their regular rhythm. And for tiny people who can’t control a ton in their lives, this is HUGE!

Time Change Tip #3 – Use the Sun

Sunlight is a natural way to help reset your child’s internal clock. When the time change happens, it’s especially important to get your little one outside during daylight hours. Whether it’s a quick walk around the neighborhood, a picnic in Town Green Park in The Woodlands, or just hanging out in the yard, sunlight helps regulate the body’s circadian rhythm, so exposure to it during the day can make a big difference.

Time Change Tip #4 – Be Patient

Let’s face it: your child’s internal clock isn’t going to magically adjust overnight. Expect some hiccups. There might be more tantrums than usual, a few extra “I’m not tired!” protests, and more attempts to negotiate bedtime. It’s all part of the process. Watch your child’s cues carefully—if they seem extra tired or overly restless, adjust as needed (like you always do anyway!). Be patient with both your child and yourself. Consistency is key, but so is flexibility. If your little one is still wide awake at 9 p.m. on the first night after the time change, it’s okay. They’ll get there, but it might take a few days. Hang in there!

Time Change Tip #5 – Do Nothing

Sometimes, the best thing you can do is… nothing. You know your child best, and sometimes, the best thing you can do is just let them adjust at their own pace. If they’re struggling or seem off, don’t stress too much about trying to force the change. Kids are surprisingly resilient, and their bodies will adapt in time. 

Conclusion

Daylight Saving Time might throw you and your child for a loop at first, but with a little patience, consistency, and a few thoughtful tweaks to your routine, you’ll both be back to your regular rhythm in no time. You’ve got this!