How to Help Your Baby or Toddler Adjust to Daylight Savings (Summer to Winter) in Australia
- Nicole Jayawickreme
- Apr 3
- 3 min read
Daylight savings can be a tricky time for little ones—and for parents! When the clocks roll back an hour in autumn, it can throw off your baby or toddler’s sleep schedule, leading to early wake-ups and disrupted naps.
But don’t worry! With a little planning, you can help your child adjust smoothly.
Here’s how to navigate the transition from daylight savings time (AEDT) to standard time (AEST) without too much disruption to your little one’s sleep.
1. Gradual Schedule Shift prior to daylight savings
Instead of changing your little one's sleep all at once on Sunday, shift your baby’s schedule gradually over a few days leading up to the time change.
Move bedtime, naps, and meal times 15-30 minutes later each day until they align with the new clock time. This slow adjustment helps their internal body clock adapt more smoothly.
2. Keep the Room Dark
With the time change, mornings will be brighter earlier, which can lead to early wake-ups. Use blackout curtains or blinds to keep the room dark and signal to your baby’s body that it’s still sleep time. If needed, a white noise machine can also help block out morning noise. Click here for my blog on 'Creating the Ideal Sleep Environment'.
3. Adjust Wake Windows & Nap Times
If your child wakes earlier than usual after the clock change, try to stretch their wake windows slightly throughout the day so that bedtime stays on track. Avoid overtiredness, but also try not to reinforce an early wake-up by offering naps too soon.
4. Expose Them to Natural Light
Sunlight is one of the most effective ways to reset the body clock. Spend time outside in the morning and late afternoon to help your little one’s circadian rhythm adjust to the new time.
5. Stick to a Consistent Bedtime Routine
A familiar bedtime routine helps signal to your baby or toddler that it’s time for sleep, regardless of the time on the clock. Stick to your regular calming routine—bath, books, cuddles, and bed—to reinforce their sleep cues.
6. Be Patient and Flexible
It can take a few days for your child’s body clock to adjust to the new schedule. Some babies adapt quickly, while others may need a full week. If early wake-ups persist, stay consistent and avoid making big changes that could create new sleep challenges.
Final Thoughts
Daylight savings time can be disruptive, but with gradual adjustments and a consistent sleep routine, your baby or toddler will adapt in no time. If you need extra support navigating the time change, I’m here to help! 💕
Do you have any daylight savings questions? Get in touch via email nicole@nicolenurtures.com.au and I'll happily answer them.
Nicole Jayawickreme
Certified Baby Sleep Consultant and Registered Nurse (Neonatal Intensive Care)
I’m a certified sleep specialist, neonatal intensive care nurse, wife and a mother of 3 beautiful little children. I know first hand how important sleep is and I am here to help you and your family with my sleep programs so that you all can thrive.
I will guide and empower determined parents like you, to get the sleep you desperately need so that you have the energy to be the best parent that you can be!
Are you ready to have a happy,
well-rested sleeper?
If you’re exhausted and uncertain of where to begin, know that I’ve been there too.
Let me show you how to navigate sleep with ease for a happier, well-rested family!
Fill out my Contact Form and I’ll be in touch
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