help!! i’ve forgotten the clocks going back

Yay! The clocks are going back… that means an EXTRA HOUR in bed!

Except if you’re a parent of a small child, and you’ve completely forgotten that it’s TOMORROW night and you haven’t prepared your little one for the big change! Well, if that’s you (and don’t worry, there are plenty of parents in the same boat), the dreaded clock change can make it tricky to keep your little one’s sleep schedule consistent.

So… if your baby usually wakes at 6 AM, don’t be surprised if they wake at 5 AM on Sunday!

With my little ones, I used to gradually put them to bed 10 minutes later each night in the week leading up to the clock change. By the time the clocks went back, they were already adjusted to the new routine. (Note to self: remember to do that next year!)

BUT—because we’ve all been busy and totally forgot, here are a few last-minute tips to help ease the transition:

• Put your little ones to bed 30 minutes later tonight and again tomorrow night—this way, you’re already halfway there!
• If bedtime is later, make sure to give them a small extra snack in the early evening to help combat hunger. No one sleeps well on an empty stomach.
• Try shifting mealtimes tomorrow by about 30 minutes later—this helps regulate your child’s internal clock.
• Keep your little ones busy and active throughout the day. Plan an outdoor adventure like a long walk, a trip to the park, or a visit to an indoor play center. Lots of fresh air and activity can help wear them out naturally.
• Delay your entire evening routine by 30 to 45 minutes, including bath time and storytime.
• If you’re struggling to keep them occupied before bedtime, try a few extra episodes of Bluey or Peppa Pig, or even better—line up a few of their favorite bedtime stories to read together.

Don’t stress! Although the time change can be a bit of a shock to the system (yours and your baby’s), it usually only takes a few days to get back to your regular sleep routine.

According to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), establishing a consistent bedtime routine and ensuring a sleep-friendly environment—such as a dark, quiet, and cool room—can help with sleep disruptions during time changes.

Good luck and sleep well!

Mama Sheep