Much to the joy and sadness of others, this Saturday, April 6th , the time change is coming and daylight saving time begins. And although we know that these changes can be more challenging for babies and children, there are some things that can be done to help them adjust better to this new schedule.
The key is to start the transition a few days in advance, so the change will be less abrupt. If you're still not sure, the change is as follows: at 11:59 p.m. on Saturday, April 6, you'll need to set your clocks back one hour, so at 11:59 p.m. it will be 10:59 p.m. This means we'll have an extra hour of sunlight in the morning.
Tips for changing time
Gradually adjust bedtime
Start making the adjustment a few days before the official time change (which is Saturday, April 6 at 11:59 p.m.). To gradually adjust your child's bedtime, increase it by 15 minutes each day so the change is not so abrupt.
Keep your sleep routine consistent
To make your baby feel comfortable and secure in the midst of this transition, and to help him adjust better to the change, it is essential to maintain the same steps in his sleep routine. Remember that the sleep routine is fundamental to the disposition in which your baby will arrive at bedtime.
Create a suitable sleeping environment
Make sure your child's bedroom is dark, cool and quiet. You can use white noise to help your child induce sleep and block out outside noise, and blackout curtains to block out light in the morning and prevent early rising.
Use natural light to your advantage
Exposure to natural light during the day can have a positive impact on your sleep at night. Natural light encourages the regulation of the circadian rhythm, which helps establish a healthy sleep pattern. In addition, natural light contributes to the production of melatonin , so exposing them to sunlight in moderation can help them sleep better at night, and thus better adapt to the time change.
Set a consistent wake-up time
If your child wakes up at the same time every day, his or her body will get used to this schedule and therefore it will be easier for him or her to adapt to the time change.