The “spring forward” jump is an easy one for most children – especially early risers!

Give yourself permission to relax about this time change. Our tendency as parents is to over-think it, and in the process our kids feel an undercurrent of stress that negatively impacts their sleep patterns.

Plan to keep all sleep periods at the same times (cold turkey) after the time has changed, but wake your child by 7am. For example, on the night preceding the jump, if bedtime is typically at 7pm, put him down at the new 7pm in one fell swoop. The following day, wake him by 7am the new time, and jump right into the new times for his nap(s). Expect him to acclimate within 2-3 days as your family’s mealtimes and activities naturally move to the new times. Continue this pattern until he’s doing it on his own. Take a deep breath and trust in the fact that the rhythms of daily life will regulate his new sleep schedule!

If you find that he does well at first but then he starts having trouble settling for naps, at bedtime or begins waking uncharacteristically in the night, that’s your cue to introduce an earlier bedtime for 3-4 consecutive nights while he catches up. Then return to the normal sleep times. Typically, well-rested kids adjust easily.  If your little one struggles, visit my Nap Chat on Facebook or email me directly to learn more about how I can help bridge the gap through a consultation. Laura@HealthyHappySleep.com