Daylight savings can be a welcome sign of longer evenings or shorter days, depending on the season. But for parents, it often signals one thing — sleep chaos. When the clocks change, even by just one hour, it can throw off your child’s internal clock and lead to cranky mornings, restless bedtimes and full-on sleep meltdowns.
So how can Aussie parents help their little ones adjust without losing their own sleep in the process? Here are tried and tested tips to manage daylight savings without the drama.
Start adjusting a few days early
Rather than waiting for the night before, begin shifting your child’s bedtime by 10 to 15 minutes each day in the week leading up to the change. This gentle approach helps their body gradually adjust to the new schedule without shock.
Keep the bedtime routine consistent
Children thrive on routine. During daylight savings, stick to your usual bedtime rituals like bath time, storytime and quiet wind-down activities. Familiar steps help signal to their body that it is time to sleep, even if the sun is still shining outside.
Make the room sleep-ready
With lighter evenings or earlier mornings, blackout curtains become your best friend. They help block out excess light and support melatonin production, the hormone that tells the brain it is time to sleep. A calm and cool room also sets the scene for better rest.
Prioritise natural light in the morning
Just as too much light at night can delay sleep, morning light can help reset your child’s body clock. Open the curtains or get outside for some sunshine shortly after waking to help reinforce the new schedule.
Avoid overtiredness
One of the biggest triggers for sleep meltdowns is an overtired child. If your little one is struggling with the shift, consider a slightly earlier nap or quiet time in the afternoon to avoid a crash before bedtime.
Support sleep with the right mattress
Comfort counts when your child is adjusting to any change. A breathable, supportive mattress like the Eco Kids mattress can help promote restful sleep all year round. Made from natural cotton and bamboo lyocell fabric, it regulates temperature and supports growing bodies — a must-have during sleep disruptions like daylight savings.
Stay patient
It may take a few days for your child to fully adjust, and that is okay. Keep routines consistent, offer extra comfort if needed and be flexible during the transition week.
Daylight savings does not have to mean sleepless nights. With a little planning, you can ease your child into the new rhythm and avoid the dreaded sleep meltdowns. Better sleep for them means a smoother week for the whole household.
For more sleep tips and to discover the Eco Kids mattress trusted by Aussie parents, visit Eco Kids.
