The end of daylight savings: Follow these baby sleep routine tips

Expert Advice – 28 Mar 24 By Fiona Wright

(Image: Getty Images)

Keep baby’s sleep schedule on track as clocks go back.

It often comes around just when you have a good thing going routine wise! But if you live in certain parts of the country, on April 7, 2024, it is going to be unavoidable when the clocks go back one hour.

This time change will mean all of Queensland, NSW, the ACT, Victoria and Tasmania will be on Australian Eastern Standard Time.

As daylight saving time ends, it can have an impact on a baby’s sleep schedule and disrupt their internal body clock, leading to confusion about when it’s time to sleep.

So, with that, here are our top tips for maintaining your baby’s sleep routine when daylight savings ends.

Baby sleep tips to adjust to the end of daylight savings

Mother kissing baby on the check as sunlight comes in through window — Let in the natural sunlight to help your little one adjust to the new wake-up time. *(Image: Getty Images)*

Make gradual adjustments

Start adjusting your baby’s sleep schedule a few days before the time change. Shift their bedtime and nap times gradually by 10-15 minutes each day until they are in sync with the new time.

Maintain a consistent bedtime routine

Follow the same bedtime routine you usually do to signal to Bub that it is time for sleep. This may include bathtime, story and snuggle.

Also, now is not the time to consider making any drastic changes so avoid transitions such as changing rooms and moving from a cot to a bed.

Use light and darkness to your advantage

When it’s awake time, open the shutters, turn on the lights and go outside for some natural sunlight and vitamin D. But when it’s nap or bedtime, use blinds or dim lights to signal sleepy time.

Asian baby awake parent asleep — It may take some time for your baby to get the hang of their new sleep schedule. *(Image: Getty Images)*

Ensure comfy conditions at bedtime

Ensure that your baby’s sleep environment is set up for restful sleep. Keep the room dark, quiet, and at a comfortable temperature.

Be patient and stay relaxed

It may take some time for your baby to adjust to the new schedule, so be patient and understanding during this transition period. Consistency and persistence will help them adapt more smoothly.

Remember, this is just a “just like jetlag, it won’t hang around for long, just take each day as it comes, allow for a grace period, and adjust your bubs routine accordingly.