Fall Back; Preparing your little one for the clock change.

Winter is just around the corner! Some parents can really worry about the clock change on Sunday, especially when they have worked very hard to get their little ones into a great routine that works for them. 

Babies and children are often more adaptable then we give them credit for particularly if the changes are made gently. 

There are a few options to prepare for the clock change;

Starting on Wednesday morning, move each feed and nap time later but just by 15 minutes. By Sunday, you will be on a routine that is an hour later than normal and therefore the new winter clock time! This can work well for babies who are sensitive to wake windows. 

The other option is to just do nothing and see what happens! You may find that because it’s just an hour for your little one’s body clock that they can adjust within a couple of days. 

Stick to your same bedtime routine and this consistency and predictability will help. 

The winter clock change is the easier time change to get used to because melatonin (the sleepy hormone) is produced when it is dark. Exposing your little one to the natural light until it gets dark will help and also reducing screen time from when it gets dark will help them settle and sleep better.

It’s also a good idea to think about their sleep environment and what temperature it is for them. They may need an extra layer now or thicker sleeping bag to avoid them getting cold especially in the early hours when their body temperature naturally drops.

Although it is getting darker, it is still important to get outside in the afternoon for fresh air and stimulation to ensure your little one gets rid of their extra energy which will also help prepare for bedtime and (hopefully!) sleep more soundly.