Spring Clock Change & Baby Sleep:

How to Avoid Disruptions

The clocks go forward this month, and while most adults adjust within a day or two, babies and toddlers often struggle. Losing an hour of sleep can lead to overtiredness, bedtime battles, and even earlier wake-ups.

If your little one already has sleep challenges, this time change might make things worse—but the good news is, there are simple ways to prepare! Let’s talk about why the clock change affects sleep and what you can do to make the transition as smooth as possible.

How the Spring Clock Change Affects Baby Sleep

Babies and young children don’t follow the numbers on the clock—they follow their internal body clock (circadian rhythm), which is regulated by light exposure, naps, and meal times.

When the clocks go forward, their body still thinks it’s an hour earlier, which can lead to:

🔹 Early wake-ups – If your child wakes at 5 AM, it could become 4 AM until their body adjusts.
🔹 Overtiredness – Later bedtimes lead to cranky, unsettled sleep.
🔹 Nap resistance – A schedule shift can make naps harder to settle into.
🔹 Bedtime battles – Their body may not feel ready for sleep at the “new” bedtime.

3 Ways to Help Your Baby Adjust to the Spring Clock Change

Every child is different, so choose the approach that suits your little one best:

1️⃣ Do Nothing (Best for Easy Sleepers & Older Kids)

Simply wake up on Sunday and go by the new time. Most children will naturally adjust within a few days—especially if they already have a strong sleep routine.

2️⃣ Gradual Shift (Best for Babies & Sensitive Sleepers)

Start adjusting 4-5 days before the clock change:
✅ Move bedtime 15 minutes earlier each night.
✅ Shift wake-up times and meal times gradually.
✅ By Sunday, they’ll already be adjusted to the new time.

3️⃣ Split the Difference (Best for Toddlers & Flexible Sleepers)

Move bedtime 30 minutes earlier on Wednesday and another 30 minutes earlier on Friday. This gradual change helps them adjust without a sudden shock.

Spring Clock Change Silver Lining: A Fix for Early Wakes!

Does your little one wake up before 6 AM? The clock change could be your new best friend!

If your baby usually wakes at 5 AM, after the clock change, it will automatically shift to 6 AM. To make this change last:
☀️ Expose them to natural light in the morning.
⏰ Keep their wake-up time consistent.
😴 Adjust naps slightly to prevent overtiredness.

This is a rare opportunity to reset your child’s sleep schedule for later wake-ups!

Struggling with Sleep? Let’s Fix It Together!

If your child’s sleep is already unpredictable, the Spring Clock Change is the perfect time to reset habits and create a sustainable sleep routine.

💤 Sleep SOS Call (£49) – A personalised consultation to help your little one adjust smoothly.

➡️ Book a call today by clicking here - https://api.leadconnectorhq.com/widget/booking/m4qU27VTlBEdb3WKtrIj

With the right approach, you can avoid sleep disruptions and even improve sleep for good.

You’ve got this!

Nicky

Islington, London