Help Your Baby Spring Forward with Ease!

Ah, Daylight Saving Time… the time when we "spring forward" and suddenly our cozy routines feel a bit off-kilter. This year, Daylight Saving Time begins on Sunday, March 9, 2025, at 2 AM. While that extra hour of evening sunlight is a dream for us grown-ups, for little ones, it can be more of a sleep struggle. Losing an hour of sleep might not seem like a big deal, but for babies and toddlers, it can feel like jet lag without the vacation photos!

But don't worry, mama. I've got you covered with some simple strategies to help your baby adjust smoothly to the time change—no overtired meltdowns required.

Why Daylight Saving Time Affects Baby Sleep

Even though it’s just a one-hour shift, that small change can throw off your baby’s circadian rhythm, making naps and bedtime a bit of a challenge. Suddenly, 6:00 PM feels like 7:00 PM, and trying to stick to your usual schedule might result in a cranky, overtired baby. The good news? The spring time change is generally easier to handle than the fall one, and with a little prep, your little one will adjust in no time.

6 Tips to Help Your Baby Adjust to Daylight Saving Time

1. Shift the Schedule Gradually: In the week leading up to March 9, start moving your baby's bedtime and nap times 10-15 minutes earlier each day. This gentle shift helps ease them into the new schedule without a dramatic change overnight.

2. Get Plenty of Natural Light: Exposure to natural light helps reset your baby's internal clock. Spend some time outdoors in the morning after waking up, even if it's just a quick stroll. Sunlight is like a natural cue to help their body adjust to the new rhythm.

3. Keep the Bedtime Routine Consistent: A familiar routine is comforting when everything else feels a bit "off." Stick to the same bedtime rituals—a warm bath, cozy pajamas, a favorite lullaby, or bedtime story. This consistency signals that it's time to wind down, even if the clock says otherwise.

4. Darken the Room: With more daylight in the evenings, your baby's room might be brighter than usual at bedtime. Use blackout curtains to create a dark, sleep-friendly environment that tells their brain it's time to snooze.

5. Be Flexible, but Patient: Your baby might take a few days to adjust, and that's okay. Some fussiness or sleep disruptions are normal. Offer extra cuddles, keep calm, and know that consistency will pay off.

6. Don’t Stress the Small Stuff: Babies are more adaptable than we think. If bedtime is a bit off for a few days, it won’t undo all your hard sleep work. Go with the flow, and before you know it, you’ll both be back on track.

Bonus Tip: Take Care of Yourself Too!

Daylight Saving Time affects you just as much as it affects your baby. Try shifting your own sleep schedule a bit, get outside for some fresh air, and don’t forget that extra cup of coffee if you need it. You’ve got this, mama!

Want more baby sleep tips and tricks? Stay tuned for more helpful advice to keep your little one (and you!) well-rested all year long.

Need Personalized Sleep Support?

If you need help with assessing your baby's sleep space or have any sleep questions, please reach out to Molly Leighton at molly@sleepshore.com.

Baby Brezza is proud to partner with sleep coach Molly Leighton. She can help you get your baby on a solid schedule and achieve your goals. Contact Molly at molly@sleepshore.com, visit her website at www.sleepshore.com, or follow her on Instagram @sleep.shore or Facebook @sleepshore.