Daylight Savings Day can present a challenge for parents who are trying to manage their baby’s sleep. You don’t have to panic if your baby is a newborn or you live in WA, Queensland, or NT. However, if your baby is older and you already have a routine, it’s possible that you are panicking.
Most newborns don’t follow a time clock. They wake up when they are hungry, or when they are wet. They also sleep when they feel comfortable and well fed. If your baby is older and you have worked hard to improve your sleep habits, there are some ways to minimize the impact.
The Gradual Approach
It’s worth trying to change your baby’s routine gradually if they are sensitive to sleeping times or reliant on a certain bedtime. Start putting your baby down 15 minutes earlier each night. This can be done three to four days ahead of time so that you don’t have to adjust when the clocks change. You should also adjust the daytime naps.
The Do Nothing Approach
It is possible to wait for the clocks change before taking action. However, be aware that you might need to plan anything within the next few days as the sudden change may take its toll. In case of an emergency, you will need to be close by or at home to ensure that they are able to get to sleep quickly. This approach is best if your baby doesn’t like routines and tires easily.
Split the Difference Approach
Try putting your baby to bed 30 minutes earlier each night on Saturday and Sunday. This method doesn’t require any preplanning and gives your baby the chance to adjust their internal clock.
Mornings will be brighter, so make sure to have your curtains or blinds drawn. This will block out early morning light and help your baby sleep later.
No matter what approach you choose, it may take your baby up to seven days to adjust to new sleeping and waking hours. If you have a tired baby, it is best not to plan too much for the next week.