In the Pacific Northwest, we LOVE Spring … real, fake, and everything in between. We get a little sun, and we go nuts. Well, this weekend, we are going to “spring forward.” We will turn our clocks one hour ahead for Daylight Savings Time (DST). This annual transition occurs at 2:00 AM on Sunday, March 9, 2025, signaling the official start of longer daylight hours in the evenings. Yay, there are no longer daylight hours.
Daylight Savings Time has been a topic of debate for years. Proponents praise the extended daylight for outdoor activities and energy savings, while critics argue about its impact on sleep patterns and health. The “loss” of an hour can be rough, especially for those with kids. Kids don’t care about daylight savings; they will get up when they get up!
Health experts advise residents to take care of themselves during this transition. The shift can disrupt sleep patterns, leading to fatigue and decreased productivity. To ease the adjustment, experts recommend gradually shifting sleep schedules in the days leading up to the change and prioritizing good sleep hygiene. Here at Oregon Kid, we covered the topic before and had similar suggestions; check it out here.
As we know, sleep is fundamental to a child’s development and well-being. Research consistently shows that inadequate sleep can lead to behavioral issues, diminished cognitive function, and even health problems. The abrupt change imposed by Daylight Savings Time can deprive children of precious sleep, particularly for those who already struggle with consistent bedtime routines. Understanding the science behind sleep cycles can empower parents to navigate this transition more effectively.
Children thrive on routine. Maintaining consistent sleep and wake schedules, even during weekends or school breaks, helps reinforce their natural circadian rhythms. Parents should strive to keep mealtimes, playtimes, and bedtime routines steady, even as they adjust to the new clock. This consistency will ease the transition and promote better overall sleep quality.
In the days before the time change, parents can optimize their child’s sleep environment. Dim the lights in the evening to signal to the brain that it’s time to wind down. Consider using blackout curtains to block out early morning sunlight, which can help children sleep longer. Additionally, limit screen time before bed, as blue light emitted by devices can interfere with the production of melatonin, the hormone that regulates sleep.
Children, especially younger ones, may not fully grasp the concept of daylight saving time. It’s beneficial for parents to explain the change in simple terms, framing it as a fun event that heralds the arrival of Spring. While the transition may come with challenges, it also presents an opportunity to embrace longer days, outdoor activities, and family time. By the end of winter, we are ready for this fun. Encourage kids to look forward to evening walks, playdates, or backyard games that become possible with the additional daylight. This positive reinforcement can help mitigate any initial reluctance they may feel about the time change.
Even with the best preparations, some children may still struggle in the days following the time change. Parents must remain patient and understanding. Monitor their moods and behaviors, and be prepared for grumpiness or fatigue. If difficulties persist, consider consulting a pediatrician for tailored advice.
The arrival of Spring and the accompanying time shift can serve as a reminder of nature’s cycles and the need for adaptability. By taking proactive steps to prepare children for the transition, parents can help ensure that Spring forward feels less like a disruption and more like an invitation to embrace the longer, brighter days ahead. So, while the move to Daylight Savings Time can pose challenges, it also offers a unique opportunity to foster family bonding and outdoor exploration a little longer each day. Just be happy we are heading towards Spring … the real thing.
What do you do to help your family get ready for time changes?
Johanna is married with two kids, three dogs, three cats, one leopard gecko, several chickens, and a few fish. She has been in the Pacific Northwest since the dream was alive in the 90s but has Southern roots and hails from Arkansas. The family spends a lot of time at some sort of sporting event for the kids. Johanna likes to fast craft, garden, host parties, and bake. Johanna and her crew go hard traveling, DIY-ing, and are always up for a new adventure or challenge.