Spring Forward: Navigating the Time Change with your Infant.
Blog post by Mackenzie Forge, March 7, 2025
Spring is in the air (finally), and with it comes every new mom's dreaded daylight savings time change. Losing an hour of sleep is tough for anyone, but for parents of infants, even a small shift in routine can feel monumental. The good news? With a little planning, you can ease your baby into the transition and make "Springing forward" a smooth process for the whole family.
Why the Time Change Affects Babies
Infants thrive on consistency, and their internal clocks (also known as circadian rhythms) don't adjust as easily as ours do as adults. When the clocks move forward, their usual bedtime and wake-up times suddenly feel off. This can lead to fussiness, trouble falling asleep, and disrupted naps.
How to Prepare Your Baby for the Time Change
- Gradual Adjustments. Instead of changing everything overnight, try shifting your baby's schedule gradually in the days leading up to the time change. Move bedtime and naps 10-15 minutes earlier each night, so by the time Sunday arrives, your baby is already adjusted.
- Expose Them to Natural Light. Sunlight is a natural cue for the body to regulate sleep. Spend time outside in the morning and afternoon to help reset your baby's internal clock.
- Stick to Your Routine. Even though the time is shifting, keeping consistent bedtime routines--like bath time, a short book and dim lighting-- will signal to your baby that it's time to wind down.
- Use Blackout Curtains. We all know how important those blackout curtains are especially when the morning light starts to sneak in at 5am in the Summertime. Blackout curtains can help maintain a dark, sleep-friendly environment.
- Be Patient. Adjusting to a new schedule can take a few days. Some babies adapt quickly, while others may need a full week. Stay flexible and give yourself grace.
How Forge Magnetic Can Help
Dressing your little one for sleep shouldn't be an added stress during the time change. Out soft, breathable magnetic rompers make nighttime diaper changes effortless--because when sleep is at a premium, every second counts.
Are you dreading or embracing the time change? Let us know your best sleep tips during the Time Change in the comments below!