Clocks go forward on Sunday... here's how to help your tot adjust

The clocks will be going forward an hour this Sunday, 26th March, which means that it’s almost summer. 

However, it also means that your little one's bedtime will be disrupted (albeit only temporarily), which can be stressful on parents.

Thankfully, there are plenty of things mums and dads can do to minimise the effects of the time change in your toddler’s sleep pattern.

1. Start getting them used to the changes now

From tonight, put your toddler to bed between five and ten minutes earlier for at least five nights. You can continue to do this even after the clocks have changed if your little one is still out of sorts. 

2. Invest in a black-out blind if you don't already have one 

Now is the time to invest in a black-out blind to keep your son or daughter's room as dark as possible. This is especially handy in the mornings if your little one tends to wake up as soon as it is bright out.

3. Don't try to prevent them napping (if they still have one during the day)

They'll probably end up falling asleep anyway… or just be really (really) cranky. However, do try to have an energetic day on Sunday so that come bedtime they will be tired, and they'll find it easier to fall asleep earlier.  

4. Stick to your routine 

If you have a good, solid bedtime routine in place try to stick to it while gradually adjusting it to sit with the earlier bedtime. Whether it's bath before bed or cuddles on the couch, your little one will appreciate the routine, and will find it easier to fall asleep if you keep things the same as before. 

5. Don't worry

Your toddler's sleep pattern will only be disrupted temporarily, and they will start to settle down after a few days.

Finally, for those who have infants at home, clocks going forward won’t have too much effect on newborn babies or babies who wake frequently during the night, as their sleep patterns are not strictly established.