According to research, children can take longer than adults to adjust as they struggle to understand the concept of the changes due to daylight savings and for younger kids, it can be even more difficult when it’s still light at bedtime.
Here are a couple of simple tips to help your little ones transition as smoothly as possible.
- Start bedtime routine earlier
Try making incremental changes to your and your child’s evening routine by settling them into bed 15 minutes earlier than their usual bedtime each day, a few days before the switch.
- Control the environment
A positive routine in the lead up to bedtime helps create consistency the body recognises, helping families wind down. Bedtime routines often work best when the atmosphere is calm and relaxed.
- Try a sleep story
Another great way to help kids get to sleep soundly is through sleep stories. Not to mention, they’re great alternatives for parents who want to sit back and relax, too!
4. Minimise light
It can be tough to convince your child to go to bed when it’s still light outside, which is where a good set of blackout blinds is handy.
Dimming the lights and closing as many blinds as possible around bedtime will help their bodies begin shutting down for the day.