Spring daylight savings and baby sleep: Helping your little one adjust

Nicole Jayawickreme
Sep 30
2 min read

Spring is here, and with it comes navigating daylight savings and baby sleep. This Sunday the clocks go forward one hour, which means brighter evenings, earlier mornings and a shift that can make bedtime feel later for little ones.

Babies thrive on consistency, so even a small change can impact their routine for a few days.

The good news? There are two simple ways to help your baby adjust to daylight savings.

Option 1 – Prepare in advance

In the two days leading up to Sunday, gradually shift your baby’s routine earlier. Move naps, bedtime, and morning wake-ups by 15–30 minutes earlier each day. By doing this, your baby’s body clock is gently adjusting before the clocks officially change.

For example:

If your baby normally goes to bed at 7:00 pm, shift bedtime to 6:45 pm on Friday, then 6:30 pm on Saturday.
Once the clocks move forward on Sunday, your baby will already be closer to the new 7:00 pm bedtime.

This approach is great for families who like to stay a step ahead with their routines.

Option 2 – Go with the flow

If planning ahead feels overwhelming, don’t worry, many families simply change the clocks on Sunday and carry on as usual. Most babies adapt within a few days, especially if you keep naps, bedtime, and wake-ups consistent. With a little patience, your child’s natural rhythm will sync back up.

When it comes to daylight savings and baby sleep...

... every baby is different. Some little ones adjust in just a day or two, while others may take a little longer. Both are completely normal. The key is to stay consistent, offer comfort, and know that with time, your baby will settle into the new schedule.

If you’re unsure or want extra guidance, I’d love to hear from you. Feel free to reach out via email nicole@nicolenurtures.com.au with any daylight savings and baby sleep questions—I’m always here to help.

And if you’re ready for more personalised support with your child’s sleep routine, my Nurture Support Sleep Training Program is a gentle, step-by-step way to create more restful nights for the whole family.

Learn More Here

Here’s to a smoother and more settled start to daylight savings!

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!

Lear more about me here